Data concerning cancer cases in Fiji is sparse, primarily due to insufficient collaboration among healthcare providers, according to Shweta Kapoor, programs manager at the Fiji Cancer Society (FCS). Kapoor shared this insight during the Diverse Stakeholders Meeting on Youth Sexual Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice (SRHRJ) held on Friday.
She pointed out that private practitioners often fail to report cancer diagnoses to the Ministry of Health. Additionally, non-governmental organizations conducting Pap smears or breast examinations also neglect to share their findings with either the FCS or the ministry.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders from the region to address issues related to SRHRJ, organized by the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF). Kapoor emphasized the urgent need for Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) nurses in rural areas of Fiji to enhance education and screening services for the public.
She reiterated that the lack of data sharing creates gaps in understanding and managing cancer care, which must be addressed to improve patient outcomes.
The four-day meeting also aimed to strengthen partnerships and share innovative practices to enhance youth SRHR initiatives across the Pacific region.