His Excellency the Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Mukhtar Al-Yafei, met today in the capital, Aden, with representatives of the National Foundation for Cancer Control, in the presence of his Deputy, Dr. Sadiq Al-Jama'i.

During the meeting, discussions covered the nature of the Foundation's work, its health and humanitarian activities, the number of cases diagnosed during the past period, and the volume of surgical procedures performed within available capabilities, as well as its programs serving patients.

The meeting also addressed the importance of enhancing community awareness about cancer, particularly in rural and remote areas, and raising the level of early health awareness to help reduce late-stage diagnoses and improve treatment and recovery chances. Key challenges were also discussed, most notably the shortage of specialized laboratories and the necessary technical capabilities for early and accurate diagnosis.

His Excellency Minister Al-Yafei affirmed that the Ministry views the issue of cancer patients primarily as a humanitarian and societal cause, requiring the integration of roles between the government, national institutions, and civil society organizations. He emphasized the Ministry's keenness to support serious initiatives, strengthen partnerships with specialized institutions, and work to empower cancer patients psychologically and socially, integrating them into society. In this context, he also stressed the importance of involving businesspeople and the private sector in supporting these humanitarian causes as a national and ethical responsibility.

The meeting further underscored the importance of providing sustainable psychological and social support for cancer patients through integrated humanitarian programs, including food assistance and motivational support, to alleviate the living and psychological burdens imposed by the illness on patients and their families.

For his part, the Executive Director of the National Foundation for Cancer Control, Dr. Jamal Musharrah, expressed his appreciation for His Excellency the Minister's interest and keenness to support cancer patient issues, considering this meeting a significant moral message to the Foundation and the patients, reflecting official recognition of the importance of the humanitarian and societal role undertaken by the Foundation.

The meeting was attended by the Head of the Social Care Sector at the Ministry, Saleh Mahmoud, the Director of the Legal Affairs Department, and the Director of the Minister's Office.