Early diagnosis can mean the difference between life and death in cancer care, The Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc. says, after a community outreach screened 59 residents of Diamond and surrounding East Bank Demerara communities for cervical, breast and prostate cancer.
The outreach, held in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Oxford Medical, brought a range of specialist cancer-related services closer to residents, with a strong emphasis on prevention and early detection.
Cervical cancer prevention and early detection formed a major component of the initiative. Women were provided with cervical cancer screening, including Pap smears and HPV testing, while colposcopy and cervical biopsies were made available for those requiring further evaluation. These services help identify cervical abnormalities early, allowing for investigation and treatment before they progress to cancer.
The outreach also addressed breast cancer awareness and screening, with women receiving clinical breast examinations along with information on breast health and warning signs that should prompt medical attention. Those requiring further assessment were referred for additional investigations, including mammography.
Men were engaged through prostate cancer screening and education, promoting greater awareness of prostate health and encouraging appropriate screening and medical evaluation.
Participants also benefited from health education sessions addressing cancer prevention, risk factors, warning signs and the importance of seeking medical attention at the earliest opportunity.
Lotus said its work continues after screening ends, with patient follow-up and navigation forming a key part of its approach. Results are reviewed and communicated directly to patients, who receive an explanation of their findings and guidance on next steps, which may include routine screening, repeat testing, colposcopy, biopsy, imaging, specialist consultation or treatment.
The organisation said this navigation approach seeks to address loss to follow-up after screening, noting that an opportunity for early diagnosis can be lost if an abnormal result is not communicated, understood or acted upon.
Dr Shivani Samlall, Founder and Chairperson of The Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc., said every person the organisation meets is someone’s mother, father, sister, brother, daughter or friend, and that its responsibility extends beyond bringing screening to communities to ensuring people feel supported and informed throughout.
Lotus thanked the Ministry of Health, the Oxford Medical team, the Diamond Regional Hospital team and its own members and volunteers for their contribution to the outreach.
“Cancer care should not end with a screening test. We don’t just screen patients, we stay connected to their care. Screening saves lives. Early diagnosis matters. And access to cancer care should not depend on where someone lives,” Dr Samlall said.
