There is a need for more awareness on cancer in the communities, says Suva Cancer Survivors group president Salote Qalo.
She highlighted this issue during the group’s launching of Pinktober in Suva yesterday.
Ms Qalo said there was a need for more women, especially in rural villages, to get checked at hospitals to help detect cancer early.
“There are many women in the communities who are not educated on cancer especially cervical and breast cancer,” she said.
“So we hope during this Pinktober more women are encouraged to get checked in health facilities and if you’re living in the rural area, go to your clinics and ask for referral.”
She said to mark the annual Pinktober campaign, the group held a small get-together and met with fellow cancer survivors within the Suva area.
“We plan to have a fashion parade soon but mostly we’ve been going to church groups to raise awareness about cancer and its symptoms just so people are aware but we are planning for more activities for this month.”
Cancer survivor Unaisi Lewagata thanked the organisers and sponsors for making the day possible.
“I’m very happy because we are launching and we are also remembering those of our friends who passed away this year,” the 38-year-old said.
“Most of us women are just at home while some were still recovering so it was good to meet them again and celebrate Pinktober.”
