Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) now account for 37 percent of all deaths in The Gambia — representing about 5,300 deaths annually, health authorities have revealed.
The alarming statistic was disclosed on Thursday at a press conference marking the launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Pink October 2026, held at the EDC Conference Hall in Kotu.
Speaking at the event, officials said cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases remain the major drivers of NCD mortality. Cardiovascular diseases alone account for about 14 percent of the deaths, followed by cancers including cervical, breast and prostate cancers.
Representing the World Health Organisation, Dr Oumie Jagne, who stood in for the WHO Country Representative, called for urgent community action. She noted that breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among women but can also affect men.
“Every woman should make breast health a priority and every family should encourage early care-seeking,” Dr Jagne said, urging community leaders to help dispel myths and stigma surrounding the disease.
The Programme Manager of the National Cancer Control Programme, Dr. Kebba S. Bojang, said this year’s theme, “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” is a reminder that each patient’s experience is different.
He revealed that globally in 2024, there were 2.4 million new breast cancer cases and 694,000 deaths. In The Gambia, GLOBOCAN 2024 estimates show 161 new cases, 77 deaths, and 295 women living with the disease within five years of diagnosis — accounting for 13.5 percent of all cancers among women.
The CEO of Malak Chemist, Laila Traboulsi, said screening must remain free and accessible. She disclosed that her organisation, C3G, screened 458 women for free in Gunjur last October and is targeting 600 women this year at Kanifing General Hospital. She lamented the high cost of treatment, noting that a single chemotherapy cycle costs up to $10,000.
Representing Solace Foundation, Dr Fatoumatta Jitteh said the fight against cancer cannot be won in hospitals alone. She noted that The Gambia still lacks a proper dedicated cancer hospital and that patients suffer physically, psychologically and financially. She called for a joint coordination platform and reaffirmed commitment to prevention.
The highlight of the event was the testimony of survivour Princess Adjola N Yaukson-Joh, who has survived breast cancer for three years after being diagnosed in Morocco.
She said she refused to be consumed by fear and strictly followed doctors’ advice on diet, rest and exercise. She warned against skin bleaching and excessive use of chemical products and urged women not to suffer in silence but to seek early medical help.