In order to reduce the mortality rate from cancer and enable early detection and treatment of the disease, Myanmar has formulated the National Strategic Plan for Cancer Control (2023-2027) and is implementing it as a national-level strategy for the prevention, control and treatment of cancer.

Health is the most fundamental foundation for survival and human resource development, as it is said that in human life, “only when one is healthy can one pursue education, and only when one is healthy can one work”. Only when the people are healthy and strong can the nation enhance its productivity, maintain social stability, and promote the development of future generations. Therefore, efforts are being vigorously undertaken with the objectives of enabling the people to live their full life span, remain free from diseases, and maintain good health and physical fitness.

In commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of Armed Forces Day 2026, the open­ing ceremony of the National Cancer Centre (NCC) in Da­gon Myothit (Seikkan) Town­ship, Yangon Region, was held recently, and it was inaugurat­ed by the Head of State in per­son. It was established with the aim of providing cancer patients with comprehensive treatment at a single location as a one-stop comprehensive care centre, as well as carry­ing out research activities.

It is learned that the State allocated more than K34 billion for the five-storey treatment ward, the eight-sto­rey treatment ward and the radiotherapy machine rooms, more than K12 billion for staff housing, and more than K30 billion for three new radio­therapy machines during the 2024-2025 fiscal year. In addi­tion, one machine donated by well-wishers this year is valued at K19 billion.

Since 2021, seven new radiotherapy machines have been installed at general hospitals in Yangon, Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. As a result, there are now five radiotherapy centres, 15 radiotherapy machines and four brachytherapy units in public hospitals and departments under the Ministry of Health. In addition, there are four radiotherapy centres, four radiotherapy machines and one brachytherapy unit operating in military hos­pitals. Consequently, treatment has been given to 285 inpatients and 3,805 outpatients.

No matter how modern and advanced the available equipment may be, the most crucial factor for successful treatment is the skill and dedication of the human resources who operate and use the machines. As cancer patients may also suffer psychological distress related to their illness, healthcare workers are urged to uphold the three guiding virtues already embedded in their profession and to care for patients with compassion, warmth and kindness, treating them with a family-like spirit.