LEBANON - Minister Nassereddine said World Cancer Day is primarily an awareness occasion but carries a tragic dimension in Lebanon due to alarming cancer rates.

He announced the reactivation of the National Cancer Registry and the publication of data for 2022, 2023, and 2024, noting an incidence rate of 224 cases per 100,000 people.

Breast cancer remains the most common among women, while prostate cancer is the most common among men.

The minister highlighted a major expansion in cancer drug provision in 2025, with distribution rising to nearly 200,000 boxes and costs increasing to $103 million.

He also announced three national awareness campaigns this year targeting colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers, while reaffirming support for anti-smoking laws and primary healthcare centers, including strengthening services.