Swakopmund: The Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) has launched a series of free outreach screening clinics for cervical, breast, and prostate cancer across Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and Henties Bay. The initiative, which began in Swakopmund on Tuesday, is part of CAN’s intensified outreach programme aimed at promoting early cancer detection and alleviating the financial burden on patients.

According to Namibia Press Agency, CAN Regional Head for Erongo, Sanet De Waal, shared that these free screenings are part of CAN’s annual national campaign. This effort is made possible through the support of the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project, which funds CAN’s preventive and awareness programmes throughout Namibia.

The services provided include screenings for cervical and breast cancer for women and prostate cancer for men, offered at no cost to the public. De Waal explained that these services significantly relieve individuals from the high expenses of private medical care, such as laboratory costs, screening kits, and consultation fees, which are often unaffordable for many Namibians.

The outreach will progress with screenings at the Kuisebmond Clinic in Walvis Bay on Wednesday and at the Henties Bay State Clinic on Thursday. De Waal also pointed out the financial challenges faced by the association as a non-profit entity that does not receive direct government funding. Despite these challenges, CAN manages to provide some financial assistance to patients, albeit limited to a maximum of three months, contingent on available funds.

Moreover, De Waal announced the introduction of a palliative care programme by CAN, with a 10-bed palliative care facility set to open in Swakopmund. There are also plans to establish a chemotherapy centre in Walvis Bay in collaboration with the government and a local mining company. These initiatives aim to enable patients to stay closer to their families and support systems, reducing the need for costly travel and accommodation in Windhoek.