Lung Cancer is Widespread in Armenia: What Causes It?

Worldwide, the incidence of cancer is on the rise, with lung cancer having the highest prevalence in Armenia, primarily caused by smoking. Naras Manukyan, director of the V. A. Fanarjyan National Center of Oncology, shared this information during an interview with Armenpress.

“February 4 is marked globally as International Day Against Cancer. The incidence of cancer is increasing, mainly due to the longer life expectancy of people. There is a misconception that the main reason for the spread of cancer depends on geography,” Manukyan stated.

He noted that they are making every effort in collaboration with the government to prevent the spread of cancer. Throughout the year, awareness campaigns are conducted at educational institutions. Informational videos and posters are regularly disseminated on social media.

“Every year on February 4, we have declared it as Oncology Congress Day. Last year's event took place in Tsaghkadzor, and this year it will be held in Sochi, Russia. Various awareness efforts are carried out during the event. I am hopeful that these events will become traditional,” Manukyan added.

He emphasized that the event helps establish international connections and assured that knowledgeable professionals from the field and many center directors will attend the event. Around 200 oncologists from Armenia will participate.

“In the medical field, cooperation with other countries is vital. As a country that does not generate science, we must closely interact with those countries that produce science, and Russia is one of those countries,” he noted.

Manukyan stated that in Armenia, radiation and surgical treatments are completely free, while chemotherapy is provided on a co-payment basis. He assured that progress is being made in this regard in Armenia.

Lung cancer has the highest prevalence in Armenia, with smoking being the main cause. In 8-9 out of 10 cases of lung cancer, the reason is smoking. Smoking simultaneously causes several cancers, including lung, bladder, and throat cancers. He welcomed the smoking-related restrictions that are currently in effect and will come into effect.

Manukyan urged people to undergo regular check-ups, noting that individuals aged 40 and older should be screened at least once a year. If they have had cancer in the past, screenings should be conducted every three months.

“We have a mobile mammography device that started operating last year. It will be available in the regions of Lori, Tavush, and Syunik. Awareness activities are taking place in these regions to encourage women aged 50 to 60 to go for free examinations,” he mentioned.

To prevent cancer, Manukyan recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle and undergoing regular screenings starting at age 40. He assured that early detection of tumors almost always leads to treatment.

He also added that a system has been created through the joint efforts of the Ministry of Health and the center to electronically track cancer statistics. He assured that we will have very accurate statistics in the future.