Increase in cancer patients in the later stage of the disease at the CWM Hospital – Dr Patel

The CWM Hospital has seen an increase in cancer patients in the later stage of the disease since they have returned to normal services.

According Urologist at the CWM Hospital, Dr Rajeev Patel, this is because cancer services were restricted due to various lockdowns and COVID-19 protocols and people did not receive the needed services.

He says most people coming in are diagnosed with stage 3 and 4 cancer.

Dr Patel says they are trying to get them diagnosed early and get them on a treatment plan as soon as possible.

He adds if people get diagnosed early, they can offer the treatment but if they are diagnosed with advanced stages, there is no chance of cure.

The CWM Urologist says one reason why people are being diagnosed with later stages of cancer is that the subject is taboo in the traditional setting and people are not comfortable talking about cancer.

Dr Patel is urging all Fijians to continuously have their daily check-ups and if they are diagnosed with cancer, there are support groups to who they can turn to such as the Fiji Cancer Society.