Our women need to be vigilant and they need to get self-examination for any possible early detection and treatment required.

This was stated by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Rosy Akbar, during the Fiji Cancer Society Pinktober launch at Tanoa Plaza in Suva yesterday.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services and Tanoa Group of Hotels each presented a cheque of $10,000 to the Fiji Cancer Society.

Ms Akbar said: “By highlighting the importance of early screening, self – breast examinations, and improved medical and support services we can help save lives by detecting cancer in its early stages and educating people about how to protect their health.

“Your participation to this call of action in raising awareness of breast cancer is crucial to the cause: know that your efforts will be making a difference in the lives of many.

“We must recognise and take ownership of the fact that many of the diseases that we face today result from the choices we make and often making the easy choices that leads to unhealthy lifestyles, taking for granted and treating our one life lightly.”

She stated in 2015, the Ministry reported that out of 200 laboratory diagnosis at CWM Hospital, only about 50 women consent for the surgical treatment.

“We can help our women make the best choices for their health. The Ministry of Health and Medical services is always committed to provide the best affordable interventions at the earliest onset or detection of breast cancer so confirming the reasons for late presentations is critical.

“Breast cancer is no longer a hidden of issue of taboo as before, it is through events like Pinktober that people have come out to openly discuss about it through forums such as this.

“During this month we are provided an important opportunity to highlight one of the most critical health issues impacting our women around the globe,” Ms Akbar said.

Edited by Maraia Vula

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