THE Suva Private Hospital has reduced all mammogram fees by 30 per cent for the month of October as a way of encouraging and heightening breast cancer awareness in Fiji.
The initiative was proposed by the Fiji Cancer Society (FCS) as part of its annual Pinktober series of events, which highlight the importance of breast cancer awareness.
Hospital general manager Doctor David Qumivutia said since the inception of the Suva Private Hospital in 2001, a solid and enduring partnership with the society was established.
"FCS approached SPH if we could offer some discount towards this initiative and as part of our corporate social responsibility for the general populace," Mr Qumivutia said. "We reviewed our internal costs and provided a discount for the month of October."
He said currently an average of three patients a day came in for a mammogram. A mammogram is the X-ray of the breast area of the chest. Mr Qumivutia said the initiative was a very good one, given its emphasis on early detection, allowing for people with cancer to manage it better.
At present, with the 30 per cent discount, it costs $77 for people over 40 years or those with a history of cancer to get a mammogram. Forms can be collected from the society's office in Tamavua.