International Men’s Day is an opportune time to pay tribute to men who have played a vital role when their loved one is diagnosed with cancer.

With cancer being one of the top killers in Fiji, Fiji Cancer Society (FCS) is encouraging men to speak out.

Communications officer Grace Tuvakasiga said International Men’s Day is a day to salute all men for their contribution towards communities, families and organisations such as the Fiji Cancer Society.

“Better relations between men and women is very important especially when one of your spouse is diagnosed with cancer.”

“Sharing their diagnosis isn’t easy and we understand that the other person is not comfortable in talking about it.”

“Thus having a better relationship with each other means you can openly talk about your problems and also be a source of hope to each other,” Ms Tuvakasiga said.

International Men’s Day is marked yearly to celebrate the positive value men bring to families and communities.

Ms Tuvakasiga hopes that the day will allow people to continue encouraging men to speak out about their health.

She said families need to continue to be body aware and seek medical advice if showing signs of any illness.

“Our message will always remain and that is – some cancers can be treated if you detect the symptoms early enough.”

“Talk to your doctor as soon as you have any symptoms and for the women to also encourage their men to get tested,” Ms Tuvakasiga said.

With a focus on improving gender relations and promote gender equality for men and women, Ms Tuvakasiga said everybody needs help each other every now and then.

“We are here to remind people that men and women that it’s okay to ask for help and there’s always support available.”

“Gender equalities is important especially when someone is diagnosed with an illness and the support is key especially when someone is journeying with cancer,” she said.

FCS also encouraging men to get tested for early detection of cancer.

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