Women’s Coalition Against Cancer (Wocaca) says women in the country continue to face a heavy burden of cancer and other non-communicable diseases (NCD) amid limited access to screening, treatment and health information.

In a statement marking International Women’s Day, Wocaca executive director Maud Mwakasungula said many women living with cancer, including breast and cervical , struggle to access timely diagnosis and adequate care.

The cancer centre in Lilongwe. I Andrew Viano

She said poverty, long distances to health facilities and limited health services in rural areas worsen the situation, forcing many to delay seeking medical attention.

Mwakasungula said the problem is further compounded by social stigma, fear of discrimination and lack of awareness about early detection and treatment of cancer and other chronic illnesses.

“Many women delay seeking medical help due to poverty, cultural barriers, fear of discrimination and lack of health information,” she said.

Mwakasungula noted that women play a central role in families and communities as caregivers, economic supporters and community builders, but often struggle to receive care when they themselves fall ill.

She said investing in women’s health is critical because healthier women contribute to stronger families, communities and national development.

UN Women executive director Sima Bahous in her statement for International Women’s Day called upon the world to stand up, show up and speak up for the rights, justice, action for all women and girls to live safely, speak freely and exist equally.

International Women’s Day, which falls on March 8, celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.