04/02/2026
World Cancer day is observed annually on 4 February. This year’s theme is "United by Unique," which emphasizes the importance of a people-centered approach to cancer care.
Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia (NamBTS) joins the world in observing World Cancer day as we continuously ensure Namibian cancer patients are treated through the very blood donations collected on a daily basis.
In Namibia, Oncology was the third highest user of adult red cell concentrate (RCC) during the 2025 financial year, with a total of 2,572 units transfused. Cervical cancer remained the leading oncology diagnosis requiring Red Cell Concentrate transfusion, accounting for (20%) of all cancer-related usage. Leukaemia was the second most frequent indication for Red Cell Concentrate among oncology patients, using (16%). This was followed by unspecified or other tumours, which accounted for (8%), prostate cancer with (8%), and breast cancer with (6%). Together, these five diagnoses accounted for nearly 58% of all RCC usage in cancer patients.
These findings reinforce the high transfusion requirements of blood cancers in Namibia, Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia is dedicated to focusing on raising awareness and taking action to reduce the global cancer burden and promote greater equity in cancer care, through blood donations and transfusions.
World Cancer Day is a solid reminder that awareness and timely action can save lives. NamBTS encourages routine check-ups and screenings, in order to help detect cancer at an early stage, reducing risks and improving outcomes
