Health

Environmental pollution linked to rising cancer cases in Kurdistan Region, reveals study

“Research conducted last year found that southern Kirkuk is the second most polluted region in Iraq. Additionally, a study from 2023 indicates Kirkuk has the highest number of cancer cases," Hashim stated.

Kurdistan 24 2024/04/02 13:23

Hawre Hashim, head of the Environmental Cooperation Institute, during an interview with Kurdistan24. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)

Kurdistan Cancer Health Pollution

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Environmental pollution significantly contributes to the rising incidence of cancer, according to the head of the Environmental Cooperation Institute.

On Tuesday, April 2, 2024, Hawre Hashim, head of the Environmental Cooperation Institute, during an interview with Kurdistan24 highlighted that, according to doctors and experts, there are various causes of cancer, but environmental pollution is a notable factor.

“Research conducted last year found that southern Kirkuk is the second most polluted region in Iraq. Additionally, a study from 2023 by the Kirkuk College of Environmental Studies indicates it has the highest number of cancer cases," Hashim stated.

He further explained, "The research has identified that most oil refineries are located in these areas. Moreover, there’s a cement factory in southern Kirkuk that emits CO2 daily. This pollution affects not only cancer rates but also has broader harmful impacts on the economy, health, and nutrition."

Kurdistan Region in 2022 recorded 9061 cases, per official figures.

The KRG Health Minister has revealed 147 children were diagnosed with cancer in 2023 in Erbil while 203 other cases were recorded in Sulaimani. Duhok had only 69 cases of cancer among children.

World Cancer Day is held annually on Feb. 4 worldwide to raise awareness of the disease and ways to prevent and treat the disease. The theme of this year is, “Together, we challenge those in power”, urging world leaders and decision-makers to accelerate efforts to close the gap in cancer care and prevention.

The KRG and South Korean development agency, known as KOICA, have recently inked a memorandum of understanding in cancer treatment and diagnosis. Minister Barzinji on Sunday officially announced the campaign.

Prime Minister Barzani in November 2023 laid the foundation stone of a $12 million-worth radiotherapy center for cancer patients in Duhok province in a bid to bolster treatment for the disease.