One of the key highlights of a recent breast cancer awareness programme in Gelephu was a concerning shift in Bhutan’s cancer landscape. Cervical cancer, once considered the most feared and dominant cancer among Bhutanese women, is now being closely challenged by breast cancer, which is seeing rising incidence and mortality rates in recent years.
Speaking at the awareness session at the Jigme Wangchuck Power Training Institute in Dekiling organised by the Bhutan Cancer Society, doctor Ugyen Tshomo said that while cervical cancer has historically been the leading cancer among women in Bhutan, breast cancer cases are catching up rapidly.
Dr Ugyen Tshomo, a gynae oncologist said, Breast cancer cases are increasing every year in Bhutan. In the past, breast cancer was only one-third as common as cervical cancer, but now the numbers are almost at the same level. If this trend continues, breast cancer is likely to keep rising. One of the contributing factors is that more women are getting married later and having children later, both of which increase the risk.”
Participants were briefed on breast cancer, its symptoms, and the importance of early detection. They were encouraged to carry out regular self-examinations and were advised on preventive lifestyle choices such as avoiding tobacco, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active.
Dr Ugyen Tshomo said, “The government does carry out cancer awareness through health workers, but most of the advocacy for different types of cancers is led by the Bhutan Cancer Society. At the moment, there are no separate government programmes for most cancers, except cervical cancer and now breast cancer. Cancer falls under the broader NCD programme, so there is no dedicated focus on each type. That is why the Bhutan Cancer Society plays a crucial role in creating awareness on various cancers.”
According to the Population-Based Cancer Registry Report 2019–2022, cervical and breast cancers are the two most common cancers among women in Bhutan, with over 270 cervical cancer cases and 135 breast cancer cases recorded during the period. Among men, stomach cancer is the most prevalent, followed by oesophageal, liver and lung cancers.
Close to 3,200 cancer cases were registered, including nearly 1,500 men and over 1,700 women. During the same period, over 1,460 deaths were recorded, around 735 among men and nearly 730 among women.
Officials from the Bhutan Cancer Society said that while health professionals lead the advocacy and awareness programmes, the Society provides additional care and support to improve the quality of life of terminal cancer patients. This includes social, spiritual, and psychological assistance for both patients and caregivers, along with home-based care through transit services.
Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Passang Dorji
