Sep 17, 2026
3 min read
More men in Guyana are being urged to prioritise their health as this year's Pinktober campaign broadens its focus beyond breast cancer, following a sharp rise in prostate cancer diagnoses.
Prostate cancer has overtaken breast cancer as the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Guyana this year, with 137 new cases recorded since January.
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony speaking at the launch of Pinktober 2026, said the campaign wants to turn growing awareness into action for men as well as women.
"From January of this year to now, we basically diagnosed about 137 new cases of prostate cancer. And that's relatively high, right. But one of the reasons why I think the number is what it is, is because of this proactive programme that we have now, because we are going out trying to find people and we are finding them and we are able to make a difference," Dr Anthony said.
Dr Frank Anthony indicated that a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test,a blood test that can flag possible prostate problems, is being made more accessible to encourage early detection. The Ministry of Health is offering vouchers covering the $4,000 cost of a PSA test at participating laboratories, allowing men to access testing without paying out of pocket.
Anthony also addressed the state of breast cancer screening, saying that while access to mammogram equipment has expanded significantly, uptake remains low. Guyana had only one mammography machine roughly a decade ago; there are now at least seven, with services available across several regions. Despite this, fewer than 2,000 mammograms have been completed since January.
"The challenge is no longer only access to equipment, but getting more people to come forward for screening," Anthony said.
To help close that gap, Balwant Singh Hospital has pledged 100 free mammograms for women and men who need them, along with free follow-up consultations for those whose scans raise concerns. One Communications will also partner with the Ministry of Health to promote screening services and distribute mammogram vouchers through partner organisations.
Chief Executive Officer of One Communication, Abraham Smith said Pinktober has brought thousands of Guyanese together for its annual walk over the years, and he hopes that same energy will now extend to screening participation.
This year's walk is scheduled for October 25 at the Everest Cricket Ground, under the theme "Many Journeys. One Hope."
According to 2018 data from the Ministry of Public Health, Guyana recorded the highest cancer incidence rate in the Caribbean, at 46.9 per cent, alongside a mortality rate of 21.0 per 100,000 persons. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in Guyana, while prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among men.
