The Mauritian Ministry of Health has intensified its health awareness and screening campaigns as part of Octobre rose and World Heart Day celebrations. Minister Anil Bachoo announced that 250 to 300 new cancer cases are registered every month in the country. This significant number highlights the need for enhanced awareness, screening, and early detection to combat the disease effectively.
Breast cancer is a major concern, with approximately 600 new cases recorded annually. The minister emphasized that cancer remains the leading cause of death among women in Mauritius. To address this, the government is working to strengthen cancer care capacities, including soliciting support from Indian specialists and oncologists to improve treatments available locally.
In addition to cancer, cardiovascular diseases are a significant health challenge in Mauritius, accounting for about 34% of all deaths. The World Heart Day theme, "Don't Miss a Beat," focuses on prevention, symptom recognition, and rapid access to care. The ministry reported an increase in cardiac interventions, with 1,026 operations performed in 2025, up from 994 in 2024.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Mauritius Telecom, has launched a screening and counseling campaign for non-communicable diseases, breast cancer, and cervical cancer. The initiative aims to promote early diagnosis and faster care. The ministry encourages the public to take advantage of free screening campaigns to facilitate timely detection and treatment.
The World Health Organization's representative in Mauritius, Dr. Abdou Salam Gueye, stressed the importance of addressing key cardiovascular risk factors through healthier diets, physical activity, and preventive measures. The use of artificial intelligence in the medical sector and e-health applications was also highlighted as a means to improve access to health information and advice.
As part of its efforts to combat cancer and cardiovascular diseases, the Mauritian government is launching a series of activities across the island. These include awareness campaigns, screening sessions, community consultations, and health education actions. The goal is to promote a culture of prevention and encourage the public to take proactive steps towards maintaining their health.
The Ministry of Health's campaigns aim to educate the public about the risks of cancer and cardiovascular diseases, as well as the importance of early detection and treatment. By working together with various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and technology providers, the government hopes to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of the Mauritian population.
Key points
- 250-300 new cancer cases are registered monthly in Mauritius.
- Approximately 600 new breast cancer cases are recorded annually.
- Cardiovascular diseases account for about 34% of all deaths in Mauritius.
