Chemotherapy services have been launched at Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital, expanding access to cancer treatment services outside Malé City.

The move comes as Raa Atoll records the fourth-highest number of registered cancer patients in the country.

According to Aasandha statistics, cancer remains the leading chronic illness for which Maldivians seek treatment overseas, underscoring the need to strengthen domestic oncology services.

In line with the government’s efforts to decentralise healthcare, chemotherapy treatment has now been introduced at Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital.

To support the new service, nursing staff at the hospital have received specialised training with assistance from the Oncology Department of Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH).

Two nurses have completed the training, and a dedicated chemotherapy room has been established, enabling treatment for up to two patients at a time.

The hospital has opened registration for patients seeking chemotherapy treatment.

Patients are required to contact the hospital in advance to arrange medication, as chemotherapy regimens differ based on cancer type and individual treatment plans.

Hospital officials noted that sufficient lead time is needed to procure required medicines from overseas suppliers.

Patients who are currently undergoing chemotherapy elsewhere, as well as those preparing to begin treatment, have been advised to inform the hospital accordingly.

Hospital statistics indicate that there are currently 58 patients in Raa Atoll receiving cancer treatment.

As Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital does not yet have a resident oncologist, chemotherapy services are being provided in collaboration with the Oncology Department of IGMH.

In cases requiring urgent specialist intervention, arrangements will be made to transfer patients to Malé without delay.

Data from Hulhumalé Hospital shows that Raa Atoll ranks fourth nationwide in terms of registered cancer patients.

National figures further indicate that, outside the Malé region, the highest number of cancer patients is recorded in Addu City, followed by Shaviyani Atoll.

The Maldives introduced its first chemotherapy service in 2014.

The first such service outside Malé City was launched in 2020 at Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital in Naifaru.

By 2023, chemotherapy services had been further expanded to Dr Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital.