Malta’s Fight Against Cancer: A Clear Vision For Prevention, Diagnosis And Treatment
On this important global occasion, World Cancer Awareness Day, awareness continues to be raised about cancer—a disease that knows no boundaries, affecting people of all ages and various parts of the body. Fortunately, advances in medicine and surgery are improving treatment outcomes.
In Malta, the government has a clear and ambitious vision aligned with the European Council’s ‘Beating Cancer Plan’ to tackle this disease. The strategy includes the following key pillars:
1. Prevention: The government is expanding primary healthcare services, offering more opportunities for people to consult family doctors who can directly order tests such as blood analyses, stool tests, and ultrasounds. A new Public Health campaign against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), including obesity—a cancer risk factor—has been launched. Investment continues in HPV vaccination among youths to eradicate cervical and related cancers.
2. Diagnosis: Investments are being made in advanced diagnostic equipment, including MRI, CT Scan, Mammography, PET-CT and endoscopy systems at Mater Dei, Gozo General Hospital and San Vincenz Day Hospital. Screening services are being expanded, with structured screenings introduced for lung, prostate and pancreatic cancer.
3. Treatment: The government recently invested in the sophisticated MR Linac system for radiotherapy and robotic surgical equipment. There are also continued investments in blood and tissue centres and regular updates to the formulary for new oncology treatments.
Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela expressed heartfelt gratitude to cancer patients, their families, and healthcare professionals. “With our clear vision and strong budget, we will continue making a difference in prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Investing not only in equipment but also in training our dedicated professionals is essential,” Minister Abela concluded.