Cancer cases increase in Labasa Hospital

There was an increase of six cases in Breast Cancer in Labasa Hospital from 2017 to 2018 according to the Oncology Department.

In addition, there were seven new prostate cancer and four rectal cancer patients recorded in the past year.

This is according to Surgical doctor, Dr Ravuama Roqisia from the Surgical Department at Labasa Hospital.

“Our fight is constant and our Oncology Department have recorded an increase in breast cancer cases in Labasa hospital from 22 cases in 2017 to 28 in 2018,” Dr Roqosia said. “However, the number of non gynecological cancers have remained constant at 56 cases, while common cases like colon cancer recorded eight cases in 2017 compared to 5 in 2018.

“To ensure quality of life is given to those we treat, who are currently enduring the fight against cancer, we emphasise teamwork firstly in providing a suitable environment whereby the patients feel appreciated.” Meanwhile, cancer survivor patients spoke up during the Pinktober Awareness and Wellness Celebration at the Katonivere Ground in Labasa yesterday.

Reshmi Lata, a stage four cancer survivor, encouraged the public to remain positive and be careful with their diet.

She said that a person’s diet needs to be improved once he or she is diagnosed with cancer.

She strongly urged people not to be afraid and feel threatened to take the step and get screened or to obtain medical advice. Inspired by her eightyear old daughter, Mrs Lata was motivated and was blessed with courage and prayers for good health.

“Cancer is not a killer disease as we are an army fighting against it,” Mrs Lata said. Another cancer survivor patient, Mitieli Baravi a stage four survivor, while advocating on cancer, said people should run to doctors.

Mr Baravi went late for treatment at the hospital after being diagnosed in 2015.

He was scared and looked for alternative treatment but was unsuccessful. In 2016, the cancer spread to stage four.

He begged the listeners to take note of any slight change in their body function.

“When you detect early that there is something wrong it will help you prolong your life as early detection is the best prevention,” Mr Baravi said.