Cervical cancer continues to be a significant health concern for women in the Northern Division, with Labasa Hospital reporting 19 new cases last year, including a patient as young as 28. Health experts emphasize that many of these deaths are preventable through early detection and intervention, yet challenges remain, particularly for rural and working women.
Dr. Saiasi Caginidaveta, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Labasa Hospital, highlights the issue of late presentations to medical facilities, which severely limits treatment options. “If the disease is beyond us, then the only thing we’re going to offer is palliative care. But we all know that this cancer is preventable. How? Through HPV vaccination,” he explains.
In addition to timely treatment, Dr. Caginidaveta points out the critical role of mental health support for patients, underlining the need for a comprehensive support system for women in the Northern Division. Community engagement is emphasized by Dr. Tiko Saumalua, the Divisional Medical Officer for the North, who advocates for collective action to combat women’s cancers.
Cancer survivor and former nursing teacher, Sereima Lalibuli, shared her personal experience regarding the significance of early detection. Offering advice for self-examination, she attests to the practical steps women can take to monitor their own health. “Every now and then, when you take off your top and you have a bra, do it in front of the mirror… that is abnormal. That’s what happened to me,” she said.
The theme for this year, “Early Detection Saves Lives,” resonates with current efforts to raise awareness of cervical cancer through improved screening processes and HPV vaccinations. While challenges persist, the introduction of innovative methods, such as HPV self-testing, could bridge the gap for women hesitant to undergo traditional screenings. These efforts align with previously launched initiatives by the Fiji Cancer Society, including a free cancer screening program aimed at encouraging participation and education among women.
The alarming increase in cervical cancer cases reflects a broader trend seen throughout Fiji, where the rising incidence of various cancers has left many families and communities in distress. Health professionals stress the importance of empowering women to seek timely medical interventions, as early detection significantly enhances treatment success rates.
Despite the challenges, there is renewed hope as healthcare professionals, community leaders, and survivors unite in a concerted effort to improve health outcomes for women in Fiji. By fostering a culture of awareness and proactive health management, there is optimism for a future where early detection becomes the norm, potentially saving countless lives from the devastating effects of cervical cancer.