At the beginning of 2022, from Al Amal Oncology Center in Sana'a, part of the National Cancer Control Foundation, I saw pain, hope and resilience despite suffering and disease. I met a dedicated cadre who gave patients hope to live. I met cancer survivors who dedicated their lives after recovery to volunteer and serve the patients, and to reflect the true meaning of life and giving.

Sincere efforts and inspiring success stories for the Centre that provides free early detection for breast and cervical cancer. It also provides care, treatment and shelter for hundreds of women and children with their escorts, and those struggling and suffering the consequences of war and cancer pain.

Cases received by the Centre are beyond its capacity and potential under the scarcity of medicines and restrictions on the import of medical devices and equipment that are obviously available in other countries.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 35,000 people have cancer in Yemen, and about 11,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed each year in this stricken country, where the poor die in their homes because they cannot afford treatment. Most of the patients' families struggle to provide treatment costs, including expensive medicines, housing and transportation costs from the other governorates to Sana'a.

I therefore appeal to the Coalition to lift restrictions on the import of medicines, devices and medical equipment for the treatment of oncology in Yemen.

The UN, international and local organizations should work to re-operate oncology treatment centers and support them with various anti-cancer drugs, special devices and basic and life-saving chemical treatments

I also call for a public-private partnership with CSOs to develop a strategy for cancer prevention and control that would ensure sustainable resources for oncological institutions, hospitals and centers, commit the private sector, companies, groups and businesses to the system of social responsibility and environmental safety, implement scientific research to monitor and collect data and early diagnosis and detection of cancers, and consider innovative approaches to financing and investing in cancer prevention.

Your Support Is Life_For Cancer Patients

A message for every cancer patient

Don't be ashamed to have cancer. Face society bravely. You alone know that you are stronger than this disease and that you can overcome it. Prove to yourself before everyone else that you will fight the disease and be reborn when you win your battle against this malignant disease.

I wish all patients recovery, health and wellness an urgently

I wish everyone to raise awareness about tumors, their risks, their causes and prevention measures, and the importance of periodic examinations and early detection.

Chairman of Tamdeen Youth Foundation

Hussein Al Suhaily *