Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa has called for a compassionate and community-centered strategy in the fight against cancer. Speaking at the Cancer Oncology Conference in Suva, he emphasized that the impact of cancer extends beyond physical health to emotional and spiritual well-being, which necessitates a treatment approach that incorporates empathy, faith, and community support alongside medical care.
Ravunawa stressed the importance of collaboration among a diverse range of stakeholders, including doctors, nurses, public health professionals, social workers, and faith organizations, to create a unified strategy that provides comprehensive care. He outlined a holistic treatment framework that spans prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. “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,” he stated.
The assistant minister highlighted the essential role of faith communities in this endeavor, noting that places of worship—such as churches, mosques, and temples—serve as key support systems where individuals can seek truth, hope, and healing. He encouraged faith leaders to advocate for cancer prevention education and early testing while also providing crucial support to families navigating challenging times.
Recognizing the urgent need for enhanced cancer care, Ravunawa urged governments to invest not only in healthcare facilities but also in initiatives that promote healthy living, education, and equitable access to health resources. He warned that failing to address the cancer crisis would lead to greater costs in the long run compared to implementing preventive measures.
This emphasis on a people-focused approach aligns with earlier discussions regarding the significance of faith in healthcare. Belinda Chan, CEO of the Fiji Cancer Society, has previously reminded faith-based organizations of their responsibility to disseminate accurate health information. She emphasized that while faith can offer hope, it should not substitute for traditional medical treatment.
Increasing cancer rates, especially underscored during awareness campaigns like Pinktober, highlight the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures. Through the integration of community and faith-based support, there is a promising path forward for enhancing cancer care and improving health outcomes for patients and families across Fiji.