Iraq announced Friday (August 17th) that it formed a high national committee tasked with combating cancerous diseases in the country.

"The cabinet decided to form a national committee headed by the environment minister, with the health minister, the human rights minister and representatives of civil society organisations specialised in combating cancer acting as members," said Iraqi government spokesperson Ali al-Dabbagh.

"The aim is to implement a national campaign to stop the spread of cancer and deal with difficult cases overseas," he added.

Al-Dabbagh said the committee will work alongside local, independent civil society organisations to ensure the success of the campaign.