The College of Health Sciences and the College of Nursing at the University of Human Development conducted a joint scientific panel in the Seminar Hall on February 4, 2025, aimed at discussing the prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer, raising awareness of this deadly illness, and explaining the various health problems associated with it.

The panellists included lecturers from both colleges: Mr Mariwan Qadir Rasheed (the panel moderator), Mr Makwan Saeed Qadir, and Mr Hunar Hasan Kareem from the Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences at the College of Health Sciences, as well as Mr Ari Jamal Hasan from the Nursing Department at the College of Nursing.

Through their presentations, the panellists provided general information about cancer, its common types, and the risks associated with the disease. They also discussed cancer progression, prevalence, and immunotherapy. They highlighted that the disease is rising globally and is a leading cause of death – millions die from cancer every year – and it is becoming a national concern in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. International efforts to combat the disease, along with their successes and failures, were additional topics raised during the panel.

The theme of World Cancer Day 2025 calls for the use of more individualised and personalised treatment methods for cancer patients, as their needs are different and unique. Treatment is most effective when an individual’s unique needs are understood and considered during the process, and when compassion and empathy are expressed toward the patients.