The Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, said Gulf countries are witnessing significant progress in healthcare systems, with noticeable improvements in the quality of services provided to cancer patients, including palliative care and psychological support.
Speaking at the opening of the Regional Oncology Conference and the 13th Gulf Federation for Cancer Control Conference, Al-Awadhi noted that cancer remains one of the world’s most pressing health, social, and psychological challenges, stressing the need for collective action and stronger regional cooperation to address it effectively.
The event was organized by the Kuwait Anti-Smoking and Cancer Society in collaboration with the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control, under the theme “Cancer: Reality and Challenges.”
Al-Awadhi highlighted that recent years have seen accelerated scientific activity in oncology, reflected in the growing number of specialized conferences, particularly across the Gulf region. He said this trend mirrors ongoing scientific and technological advancements in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
He described the conference as a key regional platform that brings together leading experts, enabling the exchange of knowledge and insights into the latest developments in cancer care. The gathering also focuses on prevention and early detection, while strengthening collaboration between the public and private health sectors, civil society organizations, and academic institutions.
The minister also underlined the vital role of Gulf cancer societies in supporting prevention and early screening initiatives, noting that the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control plays a leading role in developing national strategies and assessing their impact.
He added that scientific conferences provide an important opportunity to promote joint research among GCC countries, which share similar genetic and environmental factors, while encouraging innovation and the use of modern medical technologies in cancer control.
