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. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, highlighted that the initiative goes beyond merely wearing pink ribbons; she called for a national effort to save lives and encourage open discussions about cancer within families.
Kiran stressed the significant impact of cancer in Fiji, citing 2022 statistics that revealed 541 women died from the country’s three leading cancers, with breast cancer alone accounting for 182 of those deaths. This troubling statistic underscores the urgent need for enhanced awareness and proactive health measures.
The Minister urged all Fijians to embrace healthier lifestyles, advocating for the consumption of local foods like rourou and bele instead of processed options that can lead to health complications. Furthermore, she announced plans for the Ministry to enhance outreach this month, including mobile clinics in Namosi, Nadarivatu, Bua, and Vanua Balavu, aimed at providing cancer screenings, reproductive health education, and medical consultations to rural and maritime communities.
Adding to this initiative, Dr. Ane Veu, a consultant from CWM, noted a concerning rise in cancer cases among both men and women during Pinktober celebrations. She emphasized that breast cancer is not solely a women’s issue, as there have also been diagnoses among men. This prompted the Ministry of Health to explore the possibility of offering screening and radiation therapy for male patients.
The discussions surrounding cancer treatment have underscored the necessity for an elevated awareness, particularly in rural areas where access to vital information remains limited. Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation, echoed this sentiment at the Pinktober events, reiterating the community’s shared responsibility to enhance awareness and improve treatment options.
In a positive step towards tackling these challenges, the Ministry of Women contributed $5,000 to the Fiji Cancer Society to support programs designed to address the rising rates of cancer. As the community unites during Pinktober, there is a hopeful outlook that increased education and support will lead to substantial health improvements for those affected by cancer in Fiji. This initiative underscores a compassionate response to an urgent health crisis while emphasizing the importance of collective action in achieving better health outcomes for everyone.