Pinktober, a month dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, was officially launched at the Fiji Cancer Society’s Landmark Lighting event held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, where Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, emphasized its significance beyond just wearing pink ribbons. She articulated a national call to action aimed at saving lives and breaking the silence surrounding cancer within families.
Kiran underscored the grave issue cancer poses in Fiji, referencing statistics from 2022 that reported 541 women lost their lives to the country’s three leading cancers, with 182 of those deaths attributed specifically to breast cancer. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and proactive health measures.
During her address, Kiran urged Fijians to adopt healthier lifestyles, advocating for the consumption of local produce such as rourou and bele over processed foods that can lead to health complications. The Minister also announced that the Ministry would enhance its outreach this month with mobile clinics in Namosi, Nadarivatu, Bua, and Vanua Balavu to provide cancer screenings, reproductive health education, and medical consultations to those in rural and maritime communities.
Echoing Kiran’s sentiments, Dr. Ane Veu, a consultant from CWM, noted a concerning rise in cancer cases among both men and women during related Pinktober celebrations. She pointed out that breast cancer is not an issue exclusive to women, as some men have also been diagnosed, prompting the Ministry of Health to consider providing screening and radiation therapy for male patients.
The ongoing discussions around cancer treatment have highlighted the need for improved awareness, especially in rural communities that often lack access to crucial information. Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation, emphasized this necessity at the Pinktober events, where the community’s collective responsibility to enhance awareness and improve treatment options was reaffirmed.
In a proactive move towards addressing these challenges, the Ministry of Women contributed $5,000 to the Fiji Cancer Society to bolster programs designed to combat the rising cancer rates. As the community comes together in solidarity during Pinktober, there is hope that increased education and support can lead to significant health improvements for individuals affected by cancer in Fiji. This initiative not only reflects a compassionate response to a pressing health crisis but also emphasizes the importance of collective action in fostering better health outcomes for all.