Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa has called for a compassionate, community-focused approach in the ongoing battle against cancer. Speaking at the Cancer Oncology Conference in Suva, he emphasized that cancer not only affects the body but also takes a toll on the soul, necessitating a treatment model that extends beyond medical interventions to encompass empathy, faith, and communal support.
Ravunawa highlighted the importance of uniting various stakeholders—doctors, nurses, public health experts, social workers, and faith-based organizations—under a coordinated strategy that delivers comprehensive care. This holistic approach includes prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative support, asserting that, “Providing patients with dignity, comfort, and hope, even when healing is beyond medicine, is what it truly means to practice Universal Health Coverage so that no Fijian, and no Pacific Islander, faces cancer alone.”
The assistant minister pointed out the vital role of faith communities, asserting that churches, mosques, and temples are trusted spaces where individuals can find truth, hope, and healing. He urged faith leaders to promote understanding about cancer prevention and encourage early testing, while also providing essential support to families during difficult times.
Recognizing the pressing need for improved cancer care, he urged governments to invest not just in hospitals but also in promoting healthy living, education, and health equity. He warned that the cost of inaction in addressing the cancer crisis will invariably outweigh the costs associated with preventative measures.
This call for a people-centred approach resonates with previous discussions about the role of faith in healthcare, particularly in advocating for accurate information regarding cancer treatment. For instance, Belinda Chan, CEO of the Fiji Cancer Society, has reminded faith-based organizations to share factual health information that complements medical care, emphasizing that while faith can provide hope, it should not replace traditional treatment.
The growing concerns over increasing cancer rates, particularly highlighted during health events like Pinktober, signify the urgent need for awareness and proactive measures. Through collective community efforts and the integration of faith-based support, there is a hopeful outlook for enhancing cancer care and improving health outcomes for patients and families throughout Fiji.