Health Ministry Marks National Cancer Survivors Day
The Ministry for Health, together with the Cancer Care Pathways Directorate within the Office of the Chief Medical Officer, marked National Cancer Survivors Day with a national conference held at the Aula Magna at the University of Malta’s Valletta Campus.
The event, themed “Journey of Hope: Surviving & Beyond”, brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, cancer survivors and advocates to celebrate resilience, raise awareness about life after cancer, and discuss the ongoing needs of patients and their families.
Addressing attendees, Dr Danika Marmara, Director within the Cancer Care Pathways Directorate, described the occasion as a celebration of life that is recognised across the world.
She highlighted the courage and determination shown by cancer patients and survivors throughout their journeys, noting that the day serves as an important reminder of the strength demonstrated by those affected by the disease.
The conference also marked the first official engagement of Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg in his role as Minister for Health.
Borg said the event offered encouragement not only to individuals facing cancer but also to their families, friends and support networks. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continuing investment in healthcare infrastructure, services and research to improve outcomes for patients in Malta and Gozo.
Cancer survivor Andrew Attard spoke about the importance of providing survivors with a platform to share their experiences. He thanked organisers for creating opportunities for patients to tell their stories and support others who are currently facing similar challenges.
Throughout the day, participants took part in a series of interactive discussions covering topics such as life after treatment, the Right to be Forgotten, living well beyond cancer, national policy initiatives and innovative research.
The sessions focused on improving quality of life for survivors while addressing the long-term physical and emotional effects that can follow a cancer diagnosis.
Chief Medical Officer Clarence Pace highlighted the progress made in cancer treatment in Malta and Gozo, emphasising that improving patients’ quality of life remains a central objective of healthcare services.
National Cancer Survivors Day also served as an opportunity to recognise the dedication of healthcare professionals who support patients throughout every stage of their journey.
The conference reinforced the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening care pathways and providing holistic support to cancer survivors and their families.
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