Dr Althaf Adnan becomes Maldives’ first breast cancer surgeon
Landmark achievement boosts Maldives healthcare as first locally trained specialist expands access to breast cancer surgery
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — A Maldivian doctor has made history by becoming the country’s first specialist in breast cancer surgery, marking a significant personal and national milestone in a field where local expertise has long been limited.
Dr. Althaf Adnan Ismail is the first Maldivian to complete advanced training in breast cancer surgery, according to Hulhumale’ Hospital, which announced her achievement and described it as a step forward for the country’s healthcare system.
Her accomplishment reflects years of clinical work across multiple institutions in the Maldives. After completing medical school, Dr. Althaf began her career at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in 2015, one of the country’s main public healthcare facilities.
She later served at Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital in 2020, gaining experience in regional healthcare delivery before joining Tree Top Hospital in 2022, where she continued to build her expertise in surgical care.
Her specialization comes in a critical area of medicine. Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in the Maldives, according to the Health Protection Agency.
Official data shows more than 1,900 cancer cases have been registered in the country since 2017, with women accounting for a majority of diagnoses. Breast cancer is among the leading forms, alongside colon, lung, cervical and thyroid cancers.
Until now, patients requiring advanced breast cancer surgery often depended on treatment abroad due to the lack of specialized surgeons within the country. Dr. Althaf’s achievement is expected to help bridge that gap, enabling more patients to access care locally.
Her milestone also underscores the growing role of Maldivian women in advancing the country’s medical sector, particularly in highly specialized fields where representation has historically been limited.
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
