1,731 cancer patients were recorded from 2021 to 2024, while January 2025 alone, saw 18 new cases and the Fiji Cancer Society stressed that the biggest challenge in the fight against cancer remains to be funding.
Fiji Cancer Society revealed this while speaking to fijivillage News during the World Cancer Day landmark lighting event yesterday.
They say the top five cancers registered with the society are breast, cervical, colorectal, prostate and liver cancer.
They further say their major challenge is funding, as they rely on grants from the Ministry of Health, NGO rounds and the Women's Fund.
The society says apart from that, the organization runs on fundraising and donations, with no direct government funding at the moment.
They say this create challenges in running operations, as the pool of funds from donations is not enough to support all their initiatives.
When asked what they are doing to fight against increasing cancer cases, they say they will be launching the Tatarovi Phase 3 Project in March.
They add that in partnership with the Ministry of Women, they plan to conduct pop-up clinics around the Suva-Nausori corridor, aiming to increase screenings and create awareness about cancer symptoms.
They say many women are still unaware of the signs and symptoms of cancer and when to seek medical help.
They further say they are also advocating for the uptake of the HPV vaccination program for young girls in primary school.
They add that there are myths surrounding the vaccine, leading some parents to decline consent.
When asked about cancer in men, they say breast cancer does exist in males but cases are low compared to females.
However, prostate and testicular cancer cases are increasing, along with liver and colorectal cancer, which affect all genders.
They add that for screening in interior areas, they conduct outreach programs that include awareness and screenings. For testicular cancer, they educate men on self-examinations, while for prostate cancer, the primary screening method is a PSA blood test, which comes at a cost.
They say they try to secure funding to provide free screenings in remote areas.
The society urges people to recognise abnormalities in their bodies and seek medical help instead of opting for herbal medicines or massages.
They say many people diagnosed with cancer initially seek medical treatment but later turn to alternative treatments due to fear, often influenced by family members.
They further say by the time they return for medical help, the cancer has worsened. When fijivillage News reached out to Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa about budget allocations for the society, he says grants will be provided to support Fiji Cancer Society.
He says the Cancer Society plays a major role in providing long-term care for patients, including mobility and dressing support, especially for those in their final stages.
When asked about the exact amount allocated, he says he does not have the figure.
Meanwhile, this year's theme for the Fiji Cancer Society is "United by Unique and People-Centered Care."
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
