The Office of the First Lady, Arya Ali, in partnership with Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital, took a significant step towards reducing the risk of breast cancer by offering free mammograms to 222 women who cannot afford this crucial service.
The First Lady personally handed over vouchers for the mammograms to Bibi Hassan, the founder of the Guyana Cancer Foundation, during a dinner held at State House. The event brought together cancer patients, survivors, healthcare professionals, and other partners actively engaged in the fight against breast cancer.
First Lady Arya Ali explained that these vouchers would be administered through the Guyana Cancer Foundation and the Guyana Cancer Society, making it possible for women who wish to undergo screening but face financial constraints to do so. She also encouraged all attendees to motivate their families and loved ones to get mammograms as part of their efforts to reduce the risks associated with breast cancer.
Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony praised the First Lady for organizing the event as a means to raise awareness about breast cancer. Currently, the Ministry of Health is in the process of procuring three mammogram machines that will significantly contribute to early detection. These machines will be strategically placed in various healthcare facilities across the country as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to implement preventive measures to lower the incidence of cancer within the nation.
Dr. Anthony stated, “With breast cancer, the government is working on doing several things, including creating more access to mammograms. This month, we have a partnership with several private sector institutions, including Balwant Singh Hospital, Mercy, and the Cancer Institute, and we have been distributing vouchers to ensure that women who want to undergo a mammogram can have access to this important diagnostic tool.”
Furthermore, in the coming month, a telepathology program will be launched at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in collaboration with the Mount Sinai Health System. This initiative aims to further develop the capacity for diagnosing cancer within the country.
The Health Minister also emphasized the importance of vaccination for both women and men to prevent cervical cancer, which ranks among the leading cancers affecting women in Guyana.
The theme for Pinktober 2023 is ‘Many Hands, Caring Hearts,’ signifying the collaborative effort required to combat breast cancer and support those affected by it.
