AMMAN — Jordan on Wednesday observed the World Cancer Day, under the theme “Close the Care Gap”, showcasing the Kingdom’s leading role in cancer prevention, treatment, and research through the King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) and Centre (KHCC).

 

Under the leadership of HRH Princess Ghida Talal, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Jordan has evolved from a service provider to a regional pioneer in strategic planning, financial sustainability, and international advocacy. This national approach prioritises prevention, early detection, and equitable access to world-class holistic care, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

 

KHCF Director-General Nisreen Qatamish said Jordan significantly expanded its health protection coverage in 2025. The Cancer Care Insurance (CCI) programme now covers 4.1 million Jordanians, representing a strategic shift toward a sustainable, insurance-based financing model.

 

"The integration of CCI treatment cards into the government’s Sanad app since December 2025 has further streamlined patient procedures and enhanced efficiency."

 

Qatamish emphasised that 30 to 50 per cent of cancers are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices. KHCF’s awareness campaigns focus on combating tobacco use, addressing environmental risks, and countering medical misinformation.

 

KHCC Director-General Asem Mansour noted that 2025 saw the inauguration of the KHCC facility in Aqaba by His Majesty King Abdullah to serve the southern governorates.

 

The Centre also launched a new radiotherapy building equipped with cutting-edge technology and continues to manage the Samih Darwazah Oncology Centre at Al Bashir Hospital.

 

Mansour said that with treatment costs rising by 6-8 per cent annually, KHCC ensures sustainability through income diversification, operational efficiency, and medical tourism.

 

He added that the Centre is increasingly adopting advanced diagnostic techniques, including genetic mutation analysis and immunotherapy. In research, KHCC is collaborating with global partners in the US and Europe on CAR-T cell therapy and leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance diagnostic accuracy and clinical trial outcomes.