Her message was delivered by Minister of State for Health Hanifa Kawooya Bangirana while officiating at a national health conference at Munyonyo, jointly organized by the Uganda Cancer Institute and the Palliative Care Association of Uganda.
Alupo noted that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially cancer, are taking a heavy toll on Ugandans’ lives, yet their seriousness remains underestimated by many.
She pledged the government’s continued commitment to increasing funding for cancer treatment and care.
“We shall do everything possible to ensure more funds are allocated to cancer treatment and care so that every Ugandan has access to lifesaving services,” Alupo stated.
Dr. Jackson Orem, Executive Director of the Uganda Cancer Institute, appealed to both individuals and organizations to support cancer care and research.
He highlighted the persistent challenge of late-stage presentation, with most patients seeking medical attention when the disease is already advanced.
MacDonald Mwesiga, head of the Palliative Care Association of Uganda, reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to improving the quality of life for cancer patients.
He emphasized early detection and encouraged Ugandans to go for regular health check-ups.
This year’s conference took place against a backdrop of rising cancer cases. The Ministry of Health reports that more than 36,000 Ugandans are diagnosed annually, the majority presenting late when treatment options are limited.
To counter this, government priorities now include prevention, early detection through vaccination and screening, public education campaigns, and decentralization of cancer services to regional facilities.
Uganda has also been recognized as a pioneer in integrating palliative care into its health system.
Currently, 232 health facilities nationwide are accredited to provide oral liquid morphine, ensuring patients in pain can access free treatment.
The Ministry of Health stressed the importance of strengthening services at both hospital and community levels, ensuring no patient is left behind.
“Together with academia, civil society, and international partners, we must accelerate progress in cancer and palliative care. Every patient deserves dignity, and every community has a role to play in finding solutions,” the Ministry said in a statement.
The conference concluded with a strong call to action, commending the dedication of Uganda’s health professionals and international partners who continue to push for better outcomes in cancer and palliative care.