Health Minister expresses concern over country’s high prostate cancer mortality rate at ‘Walk of Hope’

Health Minister Cassanni Laville has said that Dominica’s prostate cancer mortality rates remain high in comparison to many of the islands and other countries in the sub-region, and this is of grave concern. His comment came while addressing the closing ceremony of the ‘Walk of Hope for Cancer Care’ held at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium on the weekend.

“Permit me to particularly reference the grave situation that we are suffering in the area of prostate cancer as it appears to be getting worse, sadly and it should not be so,” he said. “Unfortunately Dominica’s prostate cancer mortality rates remain high in comparison to many of the islands and the other countries in the sub-region.”

He continued, “This is a matter of tremendous concern and I firmly believe that we must act immediately to deal with this tremendous challenge that we are being faced with.

He added, “If we can reduce the mortality rates of prostate cancer by a 1/3 we can ensure that cancer-related deaths are no longer among the top 10 causes of death in our beloved Dominica.”

According to Laville, achieving this would be a monumental accomplishment that all should strive for. Meanwhile, President of the Dominica Cancer Society Yvonne Alexander has called on the public to take responsibility for their health.

“We are still very concerned about the numerous individuals who are diagnosed late and who succumb,” she said. “There are still many individuals who are affected by Cancer who still rely on us and the work that we do. The mobilizing of financial resources to assist them in paying for treatment.”

She encouraged those who may be diagnosed with cancer to come to the Dominica Cancer Society.

“Please help us, tell those who are diagnosed please do not stay home with a diagnosis of Cancer,” Alexander encouraged. “Come to the Dominica Cancer Society, reach out to one of our members. We are here to support you and assist.”

She also encouraged the general public to get screened.

“Early intervention saves lives,” Alexander stated.

Related Articles