May 6, 2026
THIMPHU – Despite various awareness campaigns on cancer and its risks conducted by the Bhutan Cancer Society (BCS), the number of cancer cases in the country, including head and neck cancers, continues to rise steadily.
According to the Population-Based Cancer Registry 2019–2022, published in 2025, Bhutan recorded 388 cases of head and neck cancer during the period. Of these, 209 were among men and 179 among women.
Dzongkhag-wise data shows that Samtse recorded the highest number of cases with 28, followed by Wangdue with 22, making it the second highest in the country.
In observance of this, the Bhutan Cancer Society conducted a series of awareness sessions across four communities in Gangtey and Phobjikha, reaching 293 participants last month.
The initiative reached a broad section of the community, including students, teachers, healthcare workers, local leaders and residents, focusing on prevention and early detection.
The programme was implemented in collaboration with the Wangdue Dzongkhag Health Sector, Eusa Hospital, and local government authorities.
Teachers and students of Phobjikha Central School were engaged as early ambassadors to promote healthy behaviours and help recognise warning signs.
Health professionals from Eusa Hospital were strengthened in their role as frontline responders for early detection and timely referrals.
Local leaders were involved to support advocacy efforts, reduce stigma, and encourage health-seeking behaviour, while community members were sensitised on risk factors, preventive measures, and the importance of early diagnosis.
The sessions focused on prevention and early detection. Technical content was developed by Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital’s Medical Director, Phub Tshering, a head and neck oncosurgeon, and delivered by Eusa Hospital’s Dr Chimi Wangmo.
Executive Director of Bhutan Cancer Society, Karma Tobgay said, “To increase public awareness and understanding of cancer prevention, early detection, and timely health-seeking behaviours through strengthened community and media engagement.”
In May, the focus will be on the eastern region to implement project activities and raise awareness of colorectal cancer. June will be observed as Cancer Survivor Month, during which the stories of survivors and their families will be highlighted.
For July, the society will engage with communities in neighbouring districts to raise awareness of common cancers.
In August, the focus will shift to strengthening the organisation’s visibility. September will be dedicated to raising awareness of childhood cancers, including blood, bone, brain and eye cancers.
October will focus on breast cancer, which is among the three most common cancers affecting women. November will cover stomach cancer, the leading cancer among men and the second most common among women, as well as cervical cancer, the most prevalent cancer in women.
Karma Tobgay said such community-based awareness programmes are critical in improving early detection and reducing the burden of cancer through timely intervention.