Tree Top Hospital and the Cancer Society of Maldives held a joint cancer awareness campaign at Artificial Beach to mark World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4.

The event was attended by several organizations, including Villa College, Hope Organization, Master Dental Care, Hulhumalé Hospital, the Society for Health Education (SHE), and Dhirithi. The campaign focused on cancer prevention, early detection, and available treatment services in the Maldives.

Tree Top Hospital oncologist Dr. Mohamed Amru said the awareness stall aimed to educate the public on cancer care in the country. He noted that cancer is common in the Maldives, with increasing diagnoses and improved treatment facilities. Over the past two years, 150 to 200 patients have received chemotherapy at Treetop Hospital. He added that the hospital also performs breast and neck cancer surgeries and stressed that early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes.

Dr. Amru said Tree Top Hospital is working with relevant authorities to ensure high-quality medicines, sourcing drugs directly from manufacturers to maintain standards. He also highlighted that 30 to 40 percent of cancer cases are linked to lifestyle factors, urging the public to exercise regularly, eat healthy foods, and avoid processed meats.

Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist and Head of the Cancer Department at Tree Top Hospital, Dr. Rajesh Arvind Walland, warned that oral cancer is common due to smoking habits. He emphasized that smoking, alcohol, and drug use significantly increase cancer risk and advised regular medical check-ups and avoiding tobacco use.

The theme for World Cancer Day this year is “United by Unique.”