Survivor calls for cancer screening in schools
Acancer survivor has called on the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education to conduct early cancer screenings in schools.
Marseu Rafai, 78, is a cancer survivor for 11 years, made this statement during Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) Pinktober Afternoon Tea for the Fiji Cancer Society on Friday in Suva.
“Please try to screen girls earlier and tell them how to examine themselves and take them to hospitals. Early detection will save lives,” Ms Rafai said. “Even though there might be a small lump, symptoms must not be ignored. Necessary steps should be taken. “She has also encouraged the men to step up and take their roles seriously and support the women who have cancer.
“We women never want to come forward, and confess that we have cancer, because we are afraid to die.
“We are ashamed to admit that we have cancer. So I encourage the men to help your good lady, help her so she can help all of you in the family.
“It all starts at home not anywhere else.” Ms Rafai said her purpose was to spread the news of God.
“The word ‘Love’ must be with all the men. You must love your wife, love your children and love your community.” She told those in attendance to help the cancer patients in society.
EFL executive projects and public relations manager Karunesh Rao said the support of the family went hand in hand with early detection.
“While breast cancer is there and we look at issues arising with women’s health, men should not be left out from this. Cancer is a disease beyond gender as a whole.”