In a bid to remember those who have died from cancer, ANZ Bank launched its first Pinktober Remembrance Walk.

In Fiji, cancer is the third leading cause of death.

The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Rosy Akbar, said it accounted for 10 per cent of all deaths and occured almost three times more  in females.

Ms Akbar launched the ANZ Pinktober Remembrance Walk yesterday.

“These are alarming figures and while the numbers are grim, the good news is that early detection of breast cancer allows most survivors a good quality of life after treatment,” she said.

“Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. But millions of women are surviving the disease thanks in part to early detection and improvements in treatment.”

“Early detection is the key, and I’m very pleased to hear that ANZ is providing free health checks for all staff – including men – during the month of October.

“Well done! Please, make the most of this opportunity.”

She said it’s in these awareness initiatives that people took a step closer to breaking down the barriers and take action: to detect, treat and cure breast cancer.

“Let’s talk about this openly, let’s change the culture in our homes and in our communities,” she said.

“Gone are the days when the topic of breast cancer was taboo, or the topic of sexually transmitted disease was taboo.

“We need to discuss these issues with family members in a more positive and encouraging environment only then will understanding, care and support will be forthcoming and accepting.

“I believe that this walk is in remembrance of those ANZ staff who had unfortunately succumbed to cancer. Thank you to the team at ANZ for taking on this great initiative in memory of them and many many others.”

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