Background:

Afghanistan has inaugurated its first national cancer hospital in Kabul (National Hospital), housed in the former building of the Administrative Reforms and Civil Service Commission, now renovated with a 200-bed capacity for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients. Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health inaugurated the country's first national cancer treatment hospital on Thursday January 29, 2025 in the capital, Kabul, a 200-bed facility designed to reduce the need for patients to seek care abroad.
India has provided 10 tons of anti-cancer medication worth $1 million, and is expected to help equip the hospital with radiotherapy facilities.
It is also a referral center for the entire country, serving patients from all provinces and a plans to expand to a 200-bed in the coming years. Beyond the infrastructure, WHO supports focuses on the people and the systems. More than 60 doctors, nurses, pharmacists from across Afghanistan have been trained. It is also a referral center for the entire country, serving patients from all provinces and a plans to expand to a 200-bed in the coming years. Beyond the infrastructure, WHO supports focuses on the people and the systems. More than 60 doctors, nurses, pharmacists from across Afghanistan have been trained in oncology, chemotherapy, and palliative care through a blend of online and hands-on training in Kabul.

World Health Organization figures released by the health ministry show nearly 20,000 people in Afghanistan are diagnosed with cancer each year, with about 15,000 deaths, underscoring the importance of early detection and improved care.