Work will resume on the National Oncology Centre (NOC) at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) this year, Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan announced yesterday. He said the facility will be a one-stop-shop for cancer care using a multi-disciplinary team approach, from diagnosis to treatment to cure. In a statement to mark World Cancer Day being observed today, Dr Khan said the Health Ministry will continue to invest significantly in cancer services and control. He said full management of cancer treatment is available to citizens free of charge at all Regional Health Authorities (RHAs), using both primary and secondary health care, from diagnosis to advanced management and palliative care. "If a patient needs to be referred to a private facility this will also be done for free," he said. Dr Khan said the National Radiotherapy Centre (NRC) at the St James Medical Complex, will continue to be the flagship referral centre for oncology care in the public sector. Specialist cancer care is also available at three satellite units at the Sangre Grande Hospital, the San Fernando General Hospital and the Scarborough Regional Hospital.
According to the Minister, cancer is the second leading cause of deaths among adults in Trinidad and Tobago. He pointed out, however, the incidences of the disease are linked to lifestyle choices and persons can take steps to prevent cancer and lead healthier, longer lives. He said with better lifestyle choices, 30 to 40 per cent of cancers can be prevented and one-third of cancers can be cured through early diagnosis and treatment. "I wish to stress the importance of screening since this increases the chances of detecting certain cancers early, when they are most likely to be curable," Dr Khan said. "A simple pap smear or breast or prostate exam will detect cancer at an early stage, allow for intervention and a good prognosis for prostate, breast and cervical cancers, three of the four leading types of cancers in Trinidad and Tobago. "Sexually active teenaged girls should consider the HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer. So please visit your nearest health facility, get a listing of the services available and where you can go for screening or treatment."
The theme for World Cancer Day 2012 is "Together It Is Possible".