Cancer death rates across the world have decreased by 27% in the last two decades.

Qatar is planning to reduce cancer death rates by 25% by 2025, according to Dr. Kholoud Al Mutawa, Head of the Non-communicable Diseases Department at the Ministry of Public Health.

Awareness has been identified as the first step towards achieving the goal. A number of oncologists in Qatar have emphasised the need to change societal perceptions about cancer by promoting awareness, particularly regarding the value of early detection, accessible treatments and survivors.

According to Dr. Al Mutawa, while there is a general understanding of the value of receiving treatment and visiting a hospital, many social groups have a considerable fear of cancer and its repercussions.