News

FWRM launches new research on cancer services for women

October 30, 2018 4:38 am

The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement in collaboration with the Fiji Cancer Society, launched its latest research, “Breaking the Barriers: Understanding Cancer Services, Screening & Treatment Available for Women in Fiji”.

The research focuses on the state of cancer services, screening and treatment in Fiji and the lived experiences of women accessing the public healthcare system during their journey with cancer.

The event coincided with the celebration of ‘Pinktober’ in Fiji and the upcoming review of the International Conference on Population and Development next year.

Article continues after advertisement

The findings of the research reveal that the breast and the cervix are the two common registered cancers in the Fiji cancer registry; making up 30 per cent of cancers listed.

Most women diagnosed with reproductive cancers are generally between 30 and 50 age category.

According to the research, it’s estimated that 50 percent of women will not seek further medical assistance, treatment or follow-ups after testing positive.

The research also states that many women still resort to traditional herbal medicine when diagnosed with cancer and will only return to the hospital when the families themselves cannot handle the physical deteriorating state of patient.