Labasa Hospital has issued a crucial reminder about the significance of mental health support for cancer patients, particularly during disasters when access to care and emotional wellbeing may be compromised. Dr. Moala Tuiketei, an Internal Medicine Registrar at the hospital, highlighted the necessity of mental health assistance to help patients manage their cancer treatments along with the trauma and stress that emergencies—such as natural disasters and pandemics—can introduce.
Dr. Tuiketei stressed, “Mental health care for cancer patients is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. When we support their emotional wellbeing, we enhance their ability to cope with treatment and improve their chances of survival.” He noted that integrating mental health services is crucial not only for patients but also for healthcare staff, who also require support in their demanding roles. In response, the hospital has started embedding mental health services into its emergency response plans, raising awareness and working to combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Echoing Dr. Tuiketei’s sentiments, Dr. Saiasi Caginidaveta, a Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology, spoke about the dual nature of cancer, which often invokes fear while also fostering resilience and unity among individuals. Dr. Caginidaveta encouraged women to prioritize their health through early screenings and vaccinations, asserting, “To every woman listening, please remember your health is your right and your responsibility. Remember, early detection is not a death sentence; it is a lifeline.”
The hospital is expanding its mental health services alongside cancer treatment, offering counseling, peer support groups, and psychological first aid to patients. Additionally, healthcare workers are being trained to recognize signs of emotional distress and provide swift support.
This proactive approach aligns with a broader commitment to cancer care, reflected in discussions at events like Pinktober, which have focused on the rising cancer rates among both genders. Health officials and activists have voiced the urgent need for better treatment options and early detection initiatives.
As these health initiatives progress, there is increasing optimism for improved outcomes for cancer patients in Fiji. By addressing the emotional aspects of cancer care and promoting community support, there is considerable potential not just for better health results, but for fostering a more resilient society amid ongoing challenges.