By Matik Kueth
Medical experts warned that delayed diagnosis is driving a growing cancer crisis in South Sudan, urging stronger public awareness and routine screening to save lives.
The call was made during the World Cancer Day 2026 commemoration and a media orientation on responsible cancer reporting organized by the South Sudan Cancer Network (SSCN) in partnership with the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO).
The health specialists emphasized that many patients only seek treatment when the disease has already reached advanced stages.
Dr. Albino Amum, Chairperson of SSCN, said late detection remains the biggest challenge facing cancer care in the country.
He stressed that recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical attention promptly could significantly reduce deaths.
The health experts underlined common cancers affecting South Sudanese communities, including breast, cervical, prostate, liver, colorectal, and blood cancers, as well as Kaposi’s sarcoma linked to HIV.
Warning signs such as unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, unusual bleeding, lumps, and non-healing wounds should never be ignored, they said.
Dr. Steven Francis Saki, SSCN’s Vice Chairperson, pointed to tobacco use, unsafe sexual practices, and infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HPV as major risk factors.
He urged communities to embrace prevention through vaccination, healthy lifestyles, and regular medical check-ups.
Despite limited cancer treatment services and high out-of-pocket costs, the doctors called on journalists to help fight misinformation and promote early screening nationwide, saying accurate reporting can play a vital role in reducing fear and encouraging people to seek help sooner.