Cancer incidence has been on the rise among both male and female patients, a trend underscored by CWM Consultant Dr. Ane Veu during the Pinktober celebrations held in Suva. Dr. Veu pointed out that the Ministry of Health is committed to enhancing treatment options and promoting the early detection of cancer cells for all patients.
Particularly in breast cancer, Dr. Veu noted that there have been cases reported in males as well, and the Ministry is planning to provide screening and radiation therapy for those affected.
Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Lynda Tabuya, who officiated the Pinktober event, emphasized the importance of the celebration in honoring the lives of cancer survivors and exploring solutions to improve treatment for ongoing patients. She expressed gratitude for being involved in such a significant event, which brings attention to the challenges faced by breast cancer patients, survivors, and their caregivers.
Tabuya also highlighted the pressing need for increased awareness surrounding cancer treatment, especially in rural areas. She stated, “As we move around the country, we want to see our rural communities, who may not have access to information, provided with this through the Ministry of Health and the Rural Development Ministry’s information sessions.”
In support of the fight against cancer, the Ministry of Women contributed $5,000 to the Fiji Cancer Society, assisting various initiatives aimed at reducing cancer rates, which are alarmingly high in the Pacific region and have become a leading cause of death in Fiji.
This collective effort demonstrates a growing acknowledgment of the importance of cancer awareness and treatment accessibility, with hopes for widespread education and better health outcomes across all communities.
To summarize, the rise in cancer cases poses a significant challenge, but the commitment of health officials and the community to improve care and awareness offers a hopeful perspective on future efforts to combat this disease in Fiji.
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