GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
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GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
Bibi Hassan’s personal journey: From caretaker to cancer advocate - Guyana Cancer Foundation’s inception, mission and expanding services By Naomi Parris THE Guyana Cancer Foundation has emerged as a symbol of hope for individuals fighting cancer in society. Its founder and president, Bibi Hassan, holds a deep, personal connection to the cause as she assumed the role of caregiver to her mother at a young age when she received a Breast Cancer diagnosis. In a recent interview, Hassan divulged her visionary plan to enhance accessibility to cancer treatment in Guyana. The initiative she detailed originated in 2015 when Hassan was employed by the Avon Community Health Fund for a duration of 10
years until the dissolution of the company. Nevertheless, Hassan's diligent efforts at her previous job earned her the backing required to establish her own foundation. Determined to preserve her efforts, Hassan, with the aid of her ex-employer and numerous contributors, established the Guyana Cancer Foundation. As of now, it serves as a sanctuary and knowledge center for cancer patients in Guyana and the wider Caribbean area. Following the registration of the foundation, Hassan initiated an intensive screening programme that provides mammograms and sonograms to the general population. She also held a number of medical outreaches across the country.
Shortly thereafter, Hassan additionally established a cancer survivors’ club to offer essential aid to individuals who have triumphed and continue to combat the perilous illness. In commemoration of breast cancer awareness month, Hassan takes charge and orchestrates multiple events and initiatives to provide assistance to patients. The foundation this year collaborated with the Balwant Singh Hospital to provide 150 mammograms to women in need of medical assistance. Under the theme Pink Power, Hassan has also been pushing for more awareness to encourage women to conduct regular exams. “Early detection is power,” she said.
Hassan is encouraging women, especially those who might be at risk to continuously get mammograms and for those who are younger, she urged them to get breast ultra sounds. Hassan also provides to support to persons who are diagnosed with different types of cancers who may need medical assistance, emotional and mental support. Her foundation is supported by a number of local, private sector bodies and volunteers. Over the years, Hassan noted that the foundation has garnered a number of sponsors varying from local artists as well as large enterprise. Some of those sponsors are: ExxonMobil, Jergens,
Founder and President of the Guyana Cancer Foundation, Bibi Hassan Hand -In Hand Insurance, Pixel Guyana Inc., GBTI Bank, Republic Bank, Shaw’s Media, KFC, Twins Manufacturing CHEMISTS, Team Mohamed’s, Always Sanitary Pads (Ansa Mcal), King’s Jewellery World, Bistro Cafe & Bar, Massy Distrubtion Guyana Inc, Massy Motors, Deluxe Trading, Outdoor Store and Pet Shop, Ramps Logistics, Toolsie Persaud Quarries INC. In the future, Hassan plans to broaden the scope of her services to promote early detection of not just Breast Cancer, but also other cancers impacting women. Already she has plans to start a campaign to provide screening for Cervical Cancer. In January she intends to host outreaches to support this. Driven by her own personal journey, Hassan revealed that she assumed the role of a caretaker for
her mother at a tender age, following her diagnosis of breast cancer. “My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, stage two, and I was her care giver …my mom survived cancer. She had a mastectomy [and] she is now 79-years-old,” she told the Guyana Chronicle. An emotional Hassan revealed that witnessing her mother's suffering was the driving force behind her close involvement with breast cancer patients. “I was there when all her hair fell out when she had to do chemotherapy. I was there all the time with her and she is a very strong woman and she has inspired me to help many women in Guyana,” she said adding: “She is my rock, she is my inspiration and I thank God for having her in my life at this time.”
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GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
Battling Breast Cancer… - ‘I had to stop crying and be brave’
By Telesha Ramnarine IT was a morning in June 2017 while showering, casually and unsuspectingly, that changed the life of Zalina Jasmin Singh forever. She felt a lump in one of her breasts and hastened to tell her husband and other family members about it. There was no pain, even as she would squeeze the area where she was feeling the lump. In fact, there were absolutely no other indicators that Zalina, called ‘Jay’ would actually be spending the rest of the year frantically battling Breast Cancer. The nurse at her workplace, Banks DIH Limited, where she has been employed for almost two decades, referred her to ‘Georgetown’ hospital to do a Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the left side breast. When the results came back, though, the doctors were skeptical and did not want to make a definitive pronouncement, as they weren’t clear if it was in fact Breast Cancer that Jay had. So they sent her to do an Excisional Biopsy. “When these results came back, I was Stage Two Breast Cancer positive,” Jay, 44, recalled during an interview with Pepperpot Magazine. She had suspected something was amiss, though, because when the hospital received the second set of results, they called her to go in, although they had already given her a date on which to return. “My husband and I went and they sat me down and told me that it’s cancerous and I’m
Stage Two; that the option was to do surgery and to do it as early as possible.” Her mind went blank after the doctor told her this. “I started crying right there. I didn’t know what to do;
ity took its toll on Jay, and what is more, she had to undergo treatment in a foreign country without being around her family and friends. Jay had to battle alone
from the medication was too much. I was a mess.” Jay’s breaking point came when she thought she was going to die. “That I’m not going to see my family again; not going to see my daughter, Maya, grow up or my son, Vishal, get married; not see my parents again. It was horrific. You have your weak moments.” Jay spoke with her husband, Heamraj, every day and he and the children even visited overseas. “But being there alone; dealing with all of this alone was really hard.” For this reason, Jay said, she is not sure she can go through
adopting the right mindset and today is happy to say that she has been two months in remission, meaning two months cancer free. Now, she has to ensure she eats healthy and exercise regularly. “I eat a lot of fruits; no processed foods, lots of green vegetables and hardly any meat and sweet. Before, I would’ve eaten anything, gone anywhere, and done anything. But now, you have to think about yourself, your health and family. You gotta put them first and change your lifestyle if you want to live longer. I’ve slowed down a lot. I hardly go out any-
Her husband, Heamraj, remained strong for the entire family I just started crying. I cried a lot from there on.” WEAK MOMENTS Jay decided to do treatment overseas and subsequently left Guyana to start her chemotherapy and radiation treatment. “When I went abroad, they took out some lymph nodes and the cancer did not spread; it was just at one spot.” Dealing with her new real-
many days, making her way to therapy and back on her own. “I go do my treatment and come back, alone and sick. But each time, I used to get up and pull myself up. I cried a lot. At times, I thought I wasn’t going to make it back home. Plenty days I felt like giving up because the ‘chemo’ wasn’t easy. I was really sick. I used to throw up; I couldn’t walk and the pain
Zalina with her husband Heamraj, and children Vishal and Maya all of this ever again. “It’s that hard. Look at my nails. I still have numbness in my fingers from the treatment. My chemo was so strong my fingers were numb; my toes were numb. They had to change my chemo and give me another one. My face broke out, my hair dropped out, my eyelashes and brows were gone…and not to forget the pain from the chemo.” GIVING UP WAS NOT AN OPTION On many days, Jay felt like giving up all of her efforts to get well. Along with her physical pain, she also had to battle her emotions, as well as an anxiety disorder, which kicked in shortly after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I had to stop crying, and I had to be brave,” she recalled, adding, “One day I cried so much till I stopped and said to myself yes I’m there alone, but I have my support group here. I’m not alone anymore; I need to get up and get going. This is not the end. Giving up is not an option. That was my turning point.” She started fighting after
more. I’m still in pain because of the chemo, but every day is a new day and every day it’s getting better.” Jay feels that had she not acted immediately to treat the cancer, it could’ve grown and gotten out of control. So she is advising that other sufferers take it in hand and muster up the strength to take action right away. “It’s not the end of the day. Just do your treatment; do what you have to do,” she is advising others who might be experiencing the same things that she did. “It’s hard but you need to put your mind there. You need to pull yourself together. If you don’t do it, nobody else can. It takes a lot from you but you have to be able and willing to do it. Once you can pull it through, you can beat it. “You will feel weak and like at the end but I have found that talking about it helped me a lot. So don’t keep it to yourself. It’s not a stigma. That’s one thing my husband taught me. He told me I should talk about it and embrace it. It’s not anything to be ashamed of. Be positive
Zalina Singh and have that inner strength to help you. Find a group who is going through this same thing. Just don’t shut the door. If you shut the door, you make it worse. At some point, you reach the stage where you just want to be alone and give up but giving up is not an option, especially when you have a family,” she added. MAKING EACH DAY COUNT Jay is grateful to all those who played a role in helping her through this traumatic period of her life. “I must thank Banks. I was away for about six months and they were there with me all through it. Also, my friend, Anusha, kept me there for six months. She and her family were really nice to me. Her husband, Johnny would always tell me not to give up and to have more faith in myself.” Jay said her parents, Doreen and Haroon, were also rocklike figures in her life, along with her sisters, Ryan, and Narda. She is also thankful to the doctors of the Georgetown Hospital Oncology Department. As for her dear husband, she said: “He was strong. I’ve never seen him cry. He said whatever has to be done, we have to do it and we will do it together. He has never given up on me. He never broke down in front of me. One day I asked him how come he never broke down, and he said if everyone broke down what would happen? Somebody had to be strong.” As scary as the entire experience has been, it taught Jay some valuable lessons. “You value life more; you treasure people more. You live for every day; every day is a special day. You live every day as if it’s your last day. You also get to see who care for you and who doesn’t. I’m no longer living in fear. I’m positive I beat that demon. That demon is out of my body.” She makes sure to do her follow-up hospital visits so as to ensure that the cancer does not return. “But it’s not going to come back. I’m positive. It’s not going to come back. I’ll make sure it’s not going to come back.” (Originally published in the October 7, 2018 edition of Guyana Chronicle)
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Self-examination leads to Breast Cancer diagnosis
GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
- Tomica Chand shares her story, offers advice
By Dillon Goring IN the prime of life and enjoying motherhood, 3 6 - y e a r - o l d To m i c a Chand never imagined that she would be diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Although there was a chance of this happening, since her paternal grandmother was diagnosed with the dreaded disease, she felt and looked healthy and was doing all that was necessary to live a long, healthy life. Tomica is Guyanese by birth and is currently living in the United States where she is employed as a dental coordinator. She was diagnosed in March this year,
shortly after she felt a lump in one of her breasts while taking a shower. “I felt overwhelmed. I had a lot of emotions but for my first appointment, my doctor encouraged me to bring someone with me. My stepmom came with me… my sister travelled from Guyana to help me with my children,” she said as she re-lived the moments leading up to her diagnosis and highlighted her strong support system. Chand who was going through a divorce at the time of her diagnosis, recalled that during her doctor visits, someone always accompanied her. She was never alone which she
deeply appreciated as the information she was getting from her doctor was a lot to process. She said her children, particularly the youngest, saw firsthand the devastating effects the cancer was having on her body. “My little one, he is four, he didn’t quite understand. He just knew especially when I started doing treatment that I could not play with him. He saw my hair falling out. My oldest one, he understood more but he was afraid of what would happen to me. He was seeing his mother constantly sick and my hair falling out [and] that made it so real”, Chand related.
Tomica Chand (second, right) with relatives She emphasised that she cancer treatment and adapt- 25.5 per 100,000 of the appreciates the support she ing to life after the diagno- population which ranks and her children are receiv- sis was extremely difficult. Guyana at number 23 in Not being able to play the world. ing from relatives. The World Health OrShe pointed out that with her children the way she was accustomed to, tak- ganisation (WHO) states ing them to school or doing on its website that breast other motherly things, took cancer is a disease in which a toll on her mental health. abnormal breast cells grow “I must admit that it out of control and form was hard,” Chand told the tumours. If left unchecked, Chronicle, before adding the tumours can spread that she placed her faith in throughout the body and God’s hands. become fatal. She added that her chilThe breast cancer cells dren are learning every day begin inside the milk ducts to cope and deal with the and/or the milk-producing new norm. lobules of the breast. The Chand is recuperating earliest form (in situ) is not from surgery and will soon life-threatening. Cancer undergo radiation therapy cells can spread into nearto kill the remaining cancer by breast tissue (invasion). This creates tumours that cells. Meanwhile, Chand used cause lumps or thickening. According to WHO, the opportunity to urge women to regularly do invasive cancers can spread self-examinations of their to nearby lymph nodes or breasts, which can lead to other organs (metastasize). Metastasis can be fatal. early diagnosis. Treatment is based on A c c o r d i n g t o h e r, “women should get to the person, the type of cancer and its spread. Treatknow their bodies.” “If you feel something ment combines surgery, off, don’t be afraid to go radiation therapy and medto the doctor. The pain you ications. Additionally, the orfeel will not go away because you choose to ignore ganisation states that in it. Go to the doctor and get 2020, there were 2.3 milchecked. Have a support lion women diagnosed with system, people that you can breast cancer and 685 000 rely on. Breast cancer not deaths globally. only affects you but people “As of the end of 2020, around you,” Chand stated, there were 7.8 million adding: women alive who were di“Get to know your bod- agnosed with breast cancer ies, do regular self-exam- in the past 5 years, making ination if you feel some- it the world’s most prevathing that is not normal. lent cancer. Breast cancer Don’t be afraid to tell your occurs in every country of support system what you the world in women at any need and believe and trust age after puberty but with in God, and lastly don’t increasing rates in later give up. Don’t let cancer life,” the WHO website win. Keep fighting. “ states. FRIGHTENING WHO earlier this year STATISTICS released a new Global According to the avail- Breast Cancer Initiative able statistics, breast cancer Framework which prodeaths in Guyana account vides a roadmap to attain for 96 or 1.34 per cent of the targets to save 2.5 total reported deaths. The million lives from Breast age-adjusted death rate is Cancer by 2040.
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GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
Dr. Syed Ghazi champions early detection as lifesaving measure against Cervical Cancer
By Michel Outridge
CERVICAL Cancer, often overlooked in discussions about cancer, has emerged as one of the most treatable and curable forms of the disease, thanks to the potential of early detection through screenings. Dr. Syed Ghazi, the Executive Director of Cancer Care Americas and Director of the Outreach Cancer Institute, is on a mission to educate and advocate for the power of Executive Director of timely screening in saving Cancer Care Americas lives. and Director of the Dr. Ghazi underscored Outreach Cancer the transformative impact of Institute, Dr. Syed Ghazi early detection on the treatment of Cervical Cancer. In highly treatable. However, he its earliest stages, this form warned against the dangers of of cancer can be complete- distractions from treatment, ly eliminated, rendering it emphasising that when left
untreated, it can prove fatal. Highlighting the deadly consequences of neglecting medical advice, Dr. Ghazi shared a heart-rending case from his own experience. A patient diagnosed at his private clinic, who failed to act on the diagnosis, returned two years later. Tragically, it was too late, and she passed away. She had turned to alternative medicines, hoping for a “bush” cure, instead of pursuing the recommended professional treatment. Dr. Ghazi makes an impassioned plea for year-round Cervical Cancer awareness. He encourages women between the ages of 21 to 29 and older to undergo regular screenings, including pap smears every three years. His mission, in partnership
with two non-governmental organisations, Cancer Care Americas and Outreach Cancer Institute, aims to eradicate cervical cancer by the year 2025. UNMASKING THE SILENT KILLER Cervical cancer originates in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connected to the vagina. Human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, plays a central role in most cases of cervical cancer. While many women's immune systems can combat HPV, in some, the virus persists and contributes to the development of cancerous cells. Cervical cancer initiates with genetic mutations in healthy cells, causing them to transform into cancerous
cells. These cancer cells multiply uncontrollably, forming a mass or tumor. If untreated, cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Cervical cancer comes in several forms, with the two primary types being squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Risk factors include having multiple sexual partners, early sexual activity, other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), a weakened immune system, and smoking. The Cancer Institute of Guyana Inc. has unveiled statistics concerning cervical cancer patients treated with radiation therapy from 2010 to September 20, 2018. The numbers paint a sobering picture, with a total of
370 cervical cancer patients recorded during this period. It is vital to note that cervical cancer takes the lives of approximately 36,000 women each year in the Americas. Dr. Ghazi calls for renewed focus on cervical cancer prevention through screening, particularly pap smears. His dedicated outreach extends to far-flung regions, reaching about 1,000 women annually with the message of early detection. Dr. Syed Ghazi's commitment to battling cervical cancer with the power of early detection serves as a potent reminder that, with vigilance, lives can be saved. Cervical cancer, once a silent killer, is now a conquerable adversary when caught early.
A hero in healthcare: Dr. Latoya Gooding’s dedication to fighting cancer By Faith Greene DR. Latoya Gooding, a dedicated Medical Oncologist at the Georgetown Public Hospital Oncology Department, recently offered a unique perspective on the daily challenges and triumphs faced by oncologists. Her journey into the world of oncology began in 2015, with
“I wanted to make a difference to ensure that all patients diagnosed with cancer receive some form of treatment,” Dr. Gooding passionately expressed. In 2015, as she chose her medical specialty, Dr. Gooding boldly opted for oncology. However, she encountered a significant hurdle – the absence of an Oncology department in Georgetown.
Medical Oncologist, Dr. Latoya Gooding engaging one of her patients a deeply personal and poignant motivation. During her medical school years, Dr. Gooding experienced a profound loss that ignited her passion for oncology. Her beloved grandfather succumbed to Prostate Cancer after two years of attending clinics without receiving any treatment. This heartbreaking experience became the driving force behind her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of cancer patients.
Undeterred, she clung to her dream and, alongside another doctor and a small team, initiated the establishment of the oncology department at the Georgetown Hospital. Today, this department boasts a full team of dedicated doctors, a testament to Dr. Gooding's relentless pursuit of her passion. Dr. Gooding acknowledged the emotional challenges faced by oncologists, particularly the heart-wrenching experience of losing patients, especially those in
advanced stages of cancer. “One of the biggest challenges for any doctor is losing their patient. When you have a stage four patient and there’s nothing more you can do, or you can just say 'oh, we’ll do palliative care,' knowing that the end is almost there. I think that is one of the biggest challenges, and that can affect our mental health as oncologists in Guyana and around the world,” she shared. However, Dr. Gooding also highlighted the immense rewards in her profession, including the joy of informing a patient that they are cancer-free or have successfully battled the disease. She recounted a particularly inspiring moment when a 26-yearold woman, diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, made a remarkable recovery within a week. Witnessing such outcomes serves as powerful motivation for her continued work in the field. Dr. Gooding extended a vital message to women, urging those experiencing signs of breast cancer to seek early screening at the oncology department. Women under 40 can undergo ultrasound screenings, while those over 40 should consider mammograms. “All these treatments are available right here at the Georgetown Hospital. But the best advice I'd give you is, early detection saves lives,” Dr. Gooding emphasized. Breast cancer manifests in various forms, with warning signs that include new lumps in the breast or underarm, skin irritation or dimpling, nipple changes such as redness, flakiness, or pain, nipple discharge other than breast milk, and changes in breast size. Cancer's pervasive nature serves as a stark reminder of the
importance of early detection, vigilance, and the tireless dedication of professionals like Dr. Latoya Gooding in the ongoing battle for good health and wellness. In the intricate landscape of healthcare, oncologists like Dr. Gooding stand as beacons of hope and perseverance, ensuring that cancer patients receive the care and attention they need in their fight against this formidable adversary.
Medical Oncologist, Dr. Latoya Gooding
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Early cancer detection: Survivors’ messages of resilience and hope
GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
Marcel Borne (Delano Williams photo) IN a world often clouded by uncertainty and
Belinda Darkes
fear, the stories of Marcel Borne, Belinda Darkes,
and Trudy Cummings shine as beacons of hope and resilience. These incredible women have fought and emerged victorious in their battle against cancer, demonstrating that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can triumph. Almost eight years ago, Marcel Borne discovered a lump in her breast, a discovery that would eventually lead to her stage two Breast Cancer diagnosis. Her mother had lost her life to the same insidious disease, making Marcel highly conscious of her own body. “Self-examination means a lot,” Marcel emphasises, recounting her fateful discovery. “One evening after I came out of the bath, I couldn't really say what spoke to me to examine my breast, but I followed that little voice, and I did it.” Marcel's cancer journey was marked by a series of tests, treatments, and chemotherapy cycles that she described as a nightmare. “It was hard when I was first diagnosed, and I cried, but I told myself this is not the end of it,” she recalls. Marcel’s determination led her through surgery and eight cycles of chemotherapy. She received unwavering support from her church community, which played a crucial role in her recovery. Today, Marcel stands as a survivor, advocating self-examination and resilience for women everywhere. Belinda Darkes' journey began three years ago when her doctor detected something unusual during a routine check-up. “In 2020, when I went to my doctor, she felt something was different, and she told me to get an ultrasound. So I went to check, and he said, 'this doesn't look right.”
Trudy Cummings Further tests confirmed her worst fears: cancer. She made the difficult decision to undergo a double mastectomy to ensure her safety. Belinda began her chemotherapy journey, facing challenges such as hair loss and allergic reactions but remaining steadfast in her determination to conquer cancer. Today, she leads a healthy life with minimal side effects. Belinda's advice to women facing similar battles is to maintain a positive attitude and keep smiling, saying, “You have just got to manage yourself as best you can, eat well and don't forget to be happy.” Trudy Cummings' story is one of tenacity and early detection. Diagnosed with Cervical Cancer almost a decade ago, Trudy faced a challenging path to diagnosis as her initial symptoms were attributed to hormonal imbalances. After persistent visits to specialists, she discovered the true nature of her illness. Her cancer was still in its early stages, allowing for surgical intervention. Trudy opted for surgery and continues to undergo regular check-ups, aware of the possibility of a recurrence. All these women share a crucial message: early detection saves lives. Their journeys serve as reminders that cancer knows no face and that resilience and unwavering determination can overcome even the most daunting of obstacles. As we mark October as the month dedicated to raising awareness and celebrating cancer survivors, the stories of Marcel, Belinda, and Trudy serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. (Credit: Shaniya Harding)
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GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
Rajmattie Sukar’s inspiring story:
Overcoming Breast Cancer against all odds
By Michel Outridge
IN a heartwarming tale of determination and resilience, Rajmattie Sukar, a 50-year-old mother of three and grandmother of nine, shared her inspirational journey of triumphing over Breast Cancer. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with this insidious disease. Rajmattie Sukar's encounter with Breast Cancer was serendipitous. It was during a routine medical check-up that she discovered the unwelcomed presence of the disease. The news came as a shock, leaving her both surprised and fearful, as she grappled with a host of pre-existing health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and high cholesterol. Last year, in February,
Sukar received her Breast Cancer diagnosis after a mammogram and ultrasound unveiled a mass in her right breast. In the face of this daunting revelation, she acted swiftly, heeding her doctor's advice to undergo a biopsy to remove the affected tissues. The surgical procedure took place at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH), under the expert guidance of Dr. Martinez, Ms. Khan, and their dedicated medical team. The operation proved to be successful, saving Sukar's breast while removing the surrounding tissues. Reflecting on her journey, she expressed gratitude for retaining this vital part of her body. “I had no idea I had Breast Cancer; at no point did I experience any pain. So when I was told I had it, I was shocked and couldn't believe it,” she recounted. Sukar's unwavering
commitment to her treatment plan, combined with early detection and intervention, rendered her cancer-free merely three months post-surgery. Her regular visits to the cancer clinic at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) continued until she no longer required medication. While the battle against cancer was one that Sukar won, she remains cautious about its potential return. However, her optimism shines brightly as she envisions a cancer-free future. Following the surgery, Sukar endured a great deal of pain, but her indomitable spirit carried her through. Although radiation therapy was advised by her doctors, her financial constraints prevented her from pursuing this crucial treatment, as it was only available at private hospitals. As an unemployed housewife, managing her health conditions became an
ongoing challenge. She now attends clinics at both WDRH and GPHC regularly to monitor her health and ensure cancer does not resurface. Sukar expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated healthcare professionals at WDRH, particularly Dr. Martinez and Ms. Khan, for their unwavering support throughout her cancer journey. In a heartwarming twist, Sukar’s younger sister is also a Breast Cancer survivor, emphasising the significance of early detection and timely treatment. Understanding Breast Cancer Breast cancer is a relentless disease in which cells in the breast multiply uncontrollably. This unregulated growth typically originates in the ducts or lobules of the glandular breast tissues. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most prevalent
Cancer survivor Rajmattie Sukar cancer worldwide, affecting 1 in 8 women. In 2020 alone, 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer, resulting in 685,000 deaths. In the Guyana and the Caribbean region, Breast Cancer stands as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. This underscores the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and accessible healthcare services to combat this formidable adversary. Rajmattie Sukar's re-
markable journey reminds us of the importance of resilience, early intervention, and the unwavering support of dedicated healthcare professionals in the fight against Breast Cancer. Her story offers hope and encouragement to all those affected by this devastating disease, reaffirming that, with courage and determination, one can overcome even the most challenging of circumstances.
Empowering Awareness: Understanding and Battling Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer is a formidable adversary, affecting millions of women and their families worldwide. This relentless disease can be devastating, but knowledge and early detection are powerful tools in the fight against it. In this feature, we'll explore the latest statistics and information surrounding Breast Cancer, empowering readers with vital insights that can make a significant difference. The Prevalence of Breast Cancer: Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among women globally, accounting for 30% of all newly diagnosed cancers. In 2020, an estimated 2.3 million new cases were diagnosed, affecting individuals from various walks of life. The Importance of Early Detection: The critical importance of early detection cannot be overstated. When Breast Cancer is identified at an early, localized stage, the five-year survival rate is over 90%. However, this rate drops significantly when the cancer has metastasized. Regular screenings, including mammograms and self-exams, are
for many patients. Breast Cancer patients today benefit from a range of therapies, tailored to their specific tumor characteristics. The Importance of Support: A Breast Cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Support systems
essential in identifying Breast Cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Know the Risk Factors: While Breast Cancer can affect anyone, some factors can increase one's risk. Age is a significant factor, with the risk rising as women get older. A family history of Breast Cancer and certain genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, also elevate the risk. Lifestyle choices, such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and a lack of physical activity, may contribute to a higher likelihood of developing breast cancer. Men and Breast Cancer: While it is less common, men can also be diagnosed with Breast Cancer. About 2,650 new cases of invasive breast cancer in men were diagnosed in 2020. Awareness
about this issue is essential, as men often overlook breast changes, which can result in delayed diagnosis. The Role of Genetics: Genetic testing has become a powerful tool for assessing one's breast cancer risk. Those with a family history of the disease may consider genetic testing to determine their susceptibility. Understanding genetic predispositions can enable individuals to take proactive steps to reduce their risk, such as more frequent screenings or preventive surgery. Innovations in Treatment: Treatment options for breast cancer have seen remarkable advancements over the years. Personalized medicine, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies, has improved the prognosis
play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate their journey. Organisations and support groups offer valuable resources, from educational materials to emotional support, to those facing breast cancer. Breast Cancer is a global health concern that affects countless lives. Knowl-
edge, early detection, and a proactive approach to managing risk factors can significantly impact the course of this disease. By staying informed and vigilant, we can all play a role in the battle against Breast Cancer, supporting one another and fostering hope for a brighter, healthier future.
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GUYANA Chronicle Cancer Awareness Supplement, Friday, October 20, 2023
Six mammogram myths DO you consider it insignificant to forgo your annual mammogram this year? Or are you troubled by the radiation dosage employed in a mammogram? An annual mammogram for women, aged 40 and above, aids in the early detection of Breast Cancer, resulting in less invasive treatment and increased survival rates. Myth #1: I don’t have any symptoms of Breast Cancer or a family history, so I don’t need to worry about having an annual mammogram. Fact: Experts recommends annual screening mammograms for all wom-
en over 40, regardless of symptoms or family history. Early detection is critical. According to the American Cancer Society, early-stage Breast Cancer has a five-year survival rate of 99 percent. Later-stage cancer has a survival rate of 27 per cent. More than 75 per cent of women who have Breast Cancer have no family history. Myth #2: A mammogram will expose me to an unsafe level of radiation. Fact: While a mammogram does use radiation, it is a very small amount and is within the medical guidelines because mammography is a screening tool, it is highly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. A mammogram is safe as long as the facility you go to is certified by the regulating agencies. There is constant background radiation in the world that we are exposed to every day. The radiation dose from a mammogram is equal to about two months of background radiation for the average woman. Myth #3: A 3-D mammogram is the same as a traditional mammogram. Fact: Three-dimensional mammography, or tomosynthesis, is the most modern screening and diagnostic tool available for early detection of Breast Cancer. Compared to a standard 2-D mammogram, a 3-D mammogram displays more images of the breast and in thin sections of breast tissue. With 3-D mammography, the data show a 40 percent increase in detecting early cancer and a 40 percent decrease in false alarms or unnecessary recalls from screening. Myth #4: If I have any
type of cancer in my breast tissue, a screening mammogram is guaranteed to find it. Fact: While annual mammograms are very important for women, there are limitations. This is mostly due to dense breast tissue, the denser the breast, the more likely it is that a cancer will be hidden by the tissue. Normal breast tissue can both hide a cancer and mimic a cancer. In addition to an annual mammogram other imaging methods including a breast ultrasound and a breast MRI can be used for women with dense breast tissue. Myth #5: I had a normal mammogram last year, so I don’t need another one this year. Fact: Mammography is detection, not prevention. Having a normal mammogram is great news, but it does not guarantee that future mammograms will be normal. Having a mammogram every year increases the chance of detecting the cancer when it is small and when it is most easily treated which also improves survival. Myth #6: My doctor didn’t tell me I needed a mammogram, so I cannot schedule an exam. Fact: You do not need your doctor to write you a prescription or complete an order form for you to have a screening mammogram. The recommendation is that if you are a woman from age 40 on, you should have a mammogram every year, even if your doctor forgets to mention it. Women can self-request to make an appointment for their annual mammogram for earlier detection of Breast Cancer.