The Fiji Cancer Society (FCS) is urging medical students to explore career paths in oncology, as the country grapples with an increasing need for cancer specialists. The call to action was made by FCS CEO Belinda Chan, who emphasized the critical situation following a successful World Cancer Day event at the Bayley Clinic in Lautoka. Currently, Fiji has just one qualified oncologist for its population, a stark statistic given that cancer is the third leading cause of death in the country, following heart disease and diabetes.
Chan’s appeal comes in light of alarming statistics revealing an annual rise in cancer cases. During the World Cancer Day awareness event, medical students from the Umanand Prasad School of Medicine and Health Sciences (UPSMHS) made their debut in promoting cancer awareness. Their participation was welcomed by Chan, who expressed optimism that this collaboration could stimulate greater interest in oncology among future doctors.
Fifth-year UPSMHS student Prashantika Prasad, who volunteered at the event, shared her positive experiences, reporting a strong turnout for free screenings. “It was an eye-opening experience. Many people turned up for checks, and I learned a lot,” Prasad stated, echoing the sentiments of her peers, Shifana Dean and Rinika Deo, who affirmed their commitment to engaging further with the society and their school administration on this vital issue.
The urgency of raising awareness around cancer treatment and prevention in Fiji echoes concerns raised in previous years, where medical professionals have highlighted the challenges surrounding late diagnoses and the need for proactive public health measures. As noted by previous reports, there has been a troubling increase in cancer cases, tripling in recent years, along with significant concerns about lifestyle factors contributing to this upsurge.
Despite the challenges, the ongoing efforts by the Fiji Cancer Society and aspiring medical professionals provide a hopeful path forward. Initiatives that focus on education, early detection, and community engagement are crucial. The involvement of students can play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of awareness and health screening, ultimately leading to better outcomes in cancer management.
With greater dedication and collaboration, there is potential for significant progress in combatting cancer in Fiji, paving the way toward a healthier future for the nation.
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