Despite the availability of medical services, some women in the North still struggle to access cancer treatment.
Labasa Hospital’s oncology nursing unit manager Mereoni Korovavala said lack of information, fear and financial hardship were among the barriers preventing women from seeking help.
“We do see challenges,” she said.
Ms Korovavala said awareness was crucial to ensure women sought medical help once they were diagnosed.
“The most important thing is for them to come to the hospital so doctors can assess them and provide the best treatment.”
While speaking during the International Women’s Day mini outreach program at Banisucu in Labasa, she said the hospital provided chemotherapy treatment for a number of cancer types, including breast cancer, bowel cancer and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
“Some patients still faced difficulties, particularly those diagnosed with breast cancer.
“With the help of the Fiji Cancer Society we are able to support these women and provide the assistance they need.”
She said ongoing awareness campaigns were helping encourage more women to seek treatment early.
