Cancer cases in Kurdistan have sharply increased, with more than 2,800 new diagnoses reported in the first half of 2025, according to a senior health official. The surge in cancer cases in Kurdistan highlights a growing health concern across the region.
Eyad Al-Naqshbandi, director of Hiwa Cancer Hospital in Sulaymaniyah, said that the number of patients continues to rise, especially during October, recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer accounts for about 20% of all cases, making it the most common type among women. Fortunately, many patients have achieved full recovery thanks to early diagnosis and treatment.
Data from the Ministry of Health’s Cancer Registry revealed that more than 43,000 new cancer cases were recorded nationwide in 2024. Among men, lung, colorectal, and leukemia were the most common, while among women, breast, thyroid, and colorectal cancers dominated. The report confirmed that cancer cases in Kurdistan have more than doubled over the past decade, showing a steady and concerning upward trend.
Al-Naqshbandi highlighted several challenges faced by Hiwa Hospital, including frequent equipment breakdowns, shortages of cancer medications, and limited medical supplies from central authorities. He called on government institutions and international donors to step in and help ensure continuous and effective cancer treatment services.
Since its founding nearly 20 years ago, Hiwa Cancer Hospital has treated over 90,000 patients from across the country. Al-Naqshbandi emphasized that combating cancer begins with awareness and early testing. He noted that early detection greatly increases survival rates and reduces the need for costly treatments abroad.
The growing number of cancer cases in Kurdistan underscores the urgent need for stronger healthcare infrastructure, sustainable funding, and widespread screening programs to protect the region’s population.