Alarming number of cervical cancer deaths in the Caribbean

A study conducted by the Caribbean Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) found that cervical cancer accounted for 4.5% to 18.2% of cancer deaths in the English-speaking and Dutch-speaking Caribbean.

Dr. Glennis Andall-Brereton, Epidemiologist / Senior Technical Officer, Noncommunicable Diseases at CARPHA, has heard about it.

"Nearly half of cancers are preventable or treatable if they are detected early. Cervical cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers among women in the Caribbean, remains an important public health problem, "she said.

Breast and cervical cancers are the leading causes of cancer deaths among women and have a significant negative societal impact in our region. Among Caribbean men, prostate cancer is the most common cause of cancer death, followed by lung cancer.

"Research shows that cervical cancer deaths are 2 to 9 times higher in the English-speaking and Dutch-speaking Caribbean than in the United States. The number of deaths from cervical cancer is of great concern because it is the only cancer that can be prevented by screening, early detection, treatment and vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV). A study conducted in 2017 highlighted the relevance and need for accelerated implementation of the 9-valent HPV vaccine for the prevention of cervical cancer in the Caribbean. "

CARPHA recommends healthy lifestyles to reduce cancer risk and badociated personal and financial costs. Preventative measures include avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy body weight, exercising, and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Participation in screening programs is strongly encouraged for the prevention of cervical cancer and the early detection of bad, colon and rectal cancer; and be vaccinated against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV).

In commemorating World Cancer Day 2019 "I Am and I Will," CARPHA is committed to working with key partners to reduce the cancer burden in the region.

In 2018, CARPHA became the hub of the Caribbean Carribean Cancer Registry of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is working to strengthen cancer surveillance by strengthening the capacities of cancer patients. cancer registration in the region to provide reliable information to improve control planning.

The agency works in partnership with CARICOM agencies and international institutions to influence trade agreements and influence the availability and access to healthy food, to support the prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). ), including cancer.