Breast Cancer among women in Fiji has become more common.

Colonial War Memorial Hospital OB-GYN ((Obstetrician-gynecologist) specialist in training Dr Nikhil Kumar said there was a rise in cervical cancer in Fiji

“From the hospital point of view, we see about 150 to 200 new cases of breast cancer among women and a few cases among men,” Dr Kumar said.

“We also see a rise in cervical cancer cases. We notice that more than 50 per cent of women who present themselves to us are at the later stage of the disease.

“At that time we can’t offer them the ultimate treatment and they might have to go abroad and seek chemotherapy and radiotherapy together with surgery.

“Remember that cancer is no longer regarded as a death sentence; if you pick it up early you can be cured and the disease can be removed from you.”

Suva Cancer Survivors Association president and breast cancer survivor Salote Qalo said it was important for women to get checked frequently.

“Do not depend on herbal medicine. When you feel or see the symptoms go to the hospital,” Ms Qalo said.

“Something can be done when the cancer is still at the first stage, but it is too late when it is at the later stage.”

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