Mothers play a crucial role in managing family health and disseminating vital cancer awareness information, according to Dr. Savenaca Seduadua, a pediatrician at Lautoka Aspen Hospital. His remarks followed a recent cancer awareness event hosted by WOWs Kids Fiji in collaboration with the Ministry of Health in Lautoka. The event engaged members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei Yasana o Ba (SSViTBa), emphasizing the importance of familial support in health matters.
Dr. Seduadua highlighted the unique structure of extended families in Fiji, stating that when a child falls ill, a network of relatives, including grandmothers and cousins, become integral to their care. He underscored that mothers and grandmothers often serve as primary decision-makers in household health matters. The involvement of organizations like SSViTBa is a strategic move to enhance community engagement in health awareness.
According to WOWs Kids Fiji’s West Vokili Ali, the organization is dedicated to educating families about the significance of early cancer detection and promoting healthy lifestyle choices to minimize cancer risks. They are currently supporting 462 registered patients within their care program, extending their outreach across the western regions of Fiji.
SSViTBa’s co-ordinator, Leilani Tora, reinforced the necessity for women to take an active role in health decisions, especially concerning children’s illnesses. She pointed out the fear surrounding hospitals that often prevents timely medical intervention, stressing the critical importance of early detection in improving outcomes for children facing cancer.
These messages resonate with previous advocacy efforts noted by health professionals like Dr. Siobhan Cross, who have highlighted the challenges of early detection of pediatric cancer due to misconceptions and stigma. Community outreach programs aim to provide education that demystifies cancer and encourages proactive health measures among families.
The concerted efforts from WOWs Kids Fiji and SSViTBa symbolize a hopeful step towards enhancing awareness and proactive management of cancer. By fostering a culture of informed decision-making and support, the community aims to improve health outcomes for children and families facing the challenges of cancer.
With ongoing initiatives aimed at educating and empowering women and families, there is potential for positive change in how cancer is approached within communities, leading to better health outcomes in the future.
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