Health Minister, Rosy Akbar says cancer can be a threat to our economy as treatments are very costly.

Akbar says cancer causes a financial affliction to families and it’s important that people are aware of its early symptoms before it’s too late.

“If you look at the economic impact of cancer it is very significant as well. In 2010, the total annual economic cost of cancer is estimated at approximately US one point sixteen trillion dollars, threatening economies at all income levels as well as causing financial catastrophe for individuals and families.”

Akbar say more than forty-five children under the age of fifteen are diagnosed with cancer each year but it is believed about half the cases go unreported.