Breast cancer remains the most prevalent type of cancer in Guyana, with some 161 persons diagnosed this year. According to Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, this number accounts for 17 percent of all cancers diagnosed in 2023. The official noted that more work needs to be done to promote earlier detection.
“This is something that we have to work more on in terms of reducing this burden and one way of doing that is that by urging persons to get screened early. Our approach to this is by getting people to come out and do mammograms.
“So, persons 40 years and older should come and get mammograms. Also, if you have a family risk and are between 30 to 40 years old, you should also consider doing mammograms,” Dr Anthony said during a press conference today.
He added, “Breast cancer remains a challenge for us and we have to work together to educate the population and to get more people screened.”
He noted that while only one mammogram machine is at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), the ministry is working to get three more. The facilities that will house these machines have already been identified – New Amsterdam, Linden and West Demerara hospitals.
Cervical Cancer
The second most prevalent cancer among women is cervical cancer, with 102 persons diagnosed this year. This translates to 11 per cent of cancer cases. The minister noted that there is a “very cheap and effective method” in preventing cervical cancer and that is the HPV vaccine. However, not a lot of people have been taking this option.
The minister reminded that a new guideline was recently implemented to widen the scope of women and young girls taking the shot.
“The new guideline states that if you are 16 years and older – previously this was not available, these are new guidelines – you can get two doses at a six-month interval and that would help to prevent cervical cancer. We have HPV vaccines,” he said.
Prostate Cancer
The ministry said it recorded an increase in prostate cancer as well. Some 107 persons were diagnosed this year. This accounts for 11 per cent of all cancers. A programme will be launched next year geared at early detection of this type of cancer.
