FCS emphasizes need for access to care – FBC News

In its latest outreach effort, the Fiji Cancer Society traveled to different communities, connecting with a total of 498 women.

Fiji Cancer Society chief executive Belinda Chan says over the course of the initiative they have carried out 338 screenings; including 137 Pap smears and performed 338 physical breast exams.

Chan says that for many of the women, this marked their first experience with cancer screening, making the outreach not only crucial but also deeply impactful in raising awareness and promoting early detection.

“And so at the Fiji Cancer Society, we see lives being put at risk – not because of a lack of concern, but because of a lack of access. By reaching out to these communities, we witnessed the pressing need for care and the disparities that many of our women face on a daily basis.”

Chan says many women struggle with loss but are reluctant to seek help for cancer because the pressures of everyday life and their responsibilities often overshadow their personal health.

She adds that the Fiji Cancer Society is working with the Ministry of Women to provide targeted support, including pop-up clinics, improved health education and efforts to build a culture where women are empowered to prioritize their health.