Epidemiology of Cancer in the Republic of Kiribati

Little is known about cancer epidemiology in Kiribati. Between November 1998 and December 1999, trained medical record abstractors visited 8 Micronesian jurisdictions including the Republic of Kiribati to review all available medical records in order to describe the epidemiology of cancer in Micronesia and to better understand the cancer data and control systems in each entity. The Republic of Kiribati has identified many prevalent preventable cancers. The lack of a robust cancer data tracking and surveillance system, as well as the lack of resources to institute a technologically and medically sustainable cancer control system was apparent. The implementation or existence of a national comprehensive cancer control strategic plan would facilitate greater identification, prevention, and treatment of cancer patients. The health sector and Government of Kiribati are working towards this end.