SVG joins the rest of the global community today in observing World Cancer Day 2017. Under the theme “We can. I can”. The day is being used to explore how everyone individually and collectively can play his or her part to reduce the burden of cancer.
The primary aim is to save millions of preventable deaths by raising awareness and increasing knowledge about the disease and encouraging governments and individuals across the world to take action.
In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, cancer was the leading cause of mortality (death) in 2014. One hundred and sixty-eight (168) persons died as a result of malignant neoplasm. Breast cancer was the leading cause of deaths among females, and prostate cancer among males.
To commemorate World Cancer Day 2017, the Community Nursing Services in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment would host an “open day” at Kingstown Health Center on Tuesday 7th February 2017, from 8 am to 3 pm. Persons are encouraged to attend the Health Center to have a health screening for cancer done.
A special appeal is being made for males from the age of 40 years, to attend the Health Center to have a prostate examination and other health related screening for cancer done.