new HPV testing, mammography initiatives bolster advancements

HEALTHCARE services at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) have dramatically improved in recent years, with the Oncology Department receiving significant boosts to better serve cancer patients.
During the hospital’s ‘Look Good, Feel Better’ programme for oncology patients and cancer survivors, these advancements in patient care were highlighted.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, addressed attendees on Wednesday, reflecting on past challenges in cancer treatment and the fear it once evoked.

“There was a time when people thought cancer was a death sentence, but we in the healthcare system don’t believe that anymore,” Minister Anthony remarked.

He emphasised the importance of early detection and diligent patient management, stating, “We can prevent many complications and deaths if we act early.”
Two of the most prevalent cancers among women in Guyana—breast cancer and cervical cancer—have been focal points for improvement.

To combat breast cancer, Minister Anthony announced the installation of four additional mammography machines across Guyana by the end of 2024. These machines will be placed at the New Amsterdam Hospital, Linden Hospital, Suddie Hospital, and Lethem Hospital, increasing access to early screening for women in Regions Five, Six, and Nine.

Additionally, the waiting time for pathology results has drastically decreased from three months to three days, thanks to the launch of a new pathology lab at GPHC. This improvement is critical for timely diagnoses and treatment.
In addressing cervical cancer, Minister Anthony highlighted the availability of the HPV vaccine, which the Ministry is working to make accessible to 90% of the population. The government has also introduced an HPV test, with vouchers worth GYD $8,000 provided to cover testing costs at private labs. However, the uptake of this initiative has been slower than expected, and the Minister urged greater awareness and participation.

Dr. Whitney Munroe, Medical Registrar at the Oncology Clinic, shared that since the department began offering services in 2017, staffing has increased significantly to meet growing demand. The Oncology Department now boasts a team that includes seven physicians, seven nurses, and a variety of support staff.

Dr. Munroe also revealed that from 2023 to 2024, over 264 individuals—both men and women—were diagnosed with breast cancer in Guyana. She underscored the multi-disciplinary approach to treatment, which involves the Radiological, Surgical, Pathology, and Oncology Departments, as well as the Cancer Institute of Guyana, to provide herbal and chemotherapy options to patients.

Despite the rising number of cancer diagnoses globally, Dr. Munroe expressed hope, noting that advancements in early detection and support services have significantly improved survival rates.
As GPHC continues to expand its oncology services, the hospital remains committed to providing high-quality care and ensuring that cancer patients receive the treatment and support they need to fight the disease.