Fiji is calling for heightened awareness and proactive measures against breast cancer as the nation observes Pinktober, the annual breast cancer awareness month. Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran spoke passionately in Parliament, highlighting that Pinktober represents not just awareness but a national rallying cry to protect lives through education and action.
Citing statistics from the Global Cancer Observatory, Kiran noted that breast, cervical, and thyroid cancers are the three most prevalent cancers among women in Fiji, indicating the urgent need for informed and empowered communities. “These numbers remind us that breast cancer affects both women and men of all ages, and the impact on families can be profound. Early detection saves lives, but it is contingent upon educating our communities about screening and treatment options,” she stated.
Kiran shared that between 2013 and 2022, 2,517 women were diagnosed with breast cancer, with 355 new cases in 2022 alone, the vast majority being women. Alarmingly, the youngest patient diagnosed was only 17 years old, which emphasizes the necessity of raising awareness among the youth. In the same year, breast cancer accounted for 182 of the 541 cancer-related deaths among women, illustrating the urgent need for effective screening and intervention strategies.
The Fiji Cancer Society has been instrumental in this fight, registering 10 to 15 new breast cancer patients each month in the Central Division alone. Minister Kiran encouraged leaders and community members to utilize Pinktober as a platform for initiating conversations about these critical issues, tackling the stigma surrounding cancer, and promoting regular health screenings.
This year’s observance of Pinktober builds on ongoing efforts highlighted during previous events, where health professionals discussed the alarming increase in cancer cases in Fiji. Notably, many health officials have reiterated the importance of early detection, particularly in rural areas where resources and health information are limited. Initiatives like the donation of $5,000 from the Ministry of Women to the Fiji Cancer Society aim to bolster awareness and treatment programs.
Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation, Lynda Tabuya, has also advocated for greater outreach to rural communities, ensuring that everyone has access to vital health information and resources. This collective community effort for awareness highlights a commitment to reducing cancer rates and improving outcomes for those affected.
As the nation grapples with the reality of rising cancer cases, the call for collective action and support is more pertinent than ever. Through concerted efforts, healthcare education, and community involvement, there exists hope for better health outcomes for individuals facing cancer in Fiji. This spirit of resilience and commitment could pave the way towards significantly reducing the impact of cancer in the Pacific nation.