Oct 7, 2026
2 min read
The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s (GPHC) Oncology Department is recording at least 15 new cancer cases each week, with breast cancer accounting for a significant number of cases.
The department recorded 147 breast cancer cases in 2025 and another 107 between January and August 2026, while the Ministry of Health said 704 people have been diagnosed with cancer so far this year.
Medical Registrar in the Oncology Department, Dr Alina Gutierrez, said the department continues to see a steady flow of patients requiring treatment.
“We have every day at least 20 or 25 patients at chemo room ... And every single day in the follow-up consultation, we have 15 or 51, 52 patients,” Gutierrez said.
Clerk at the Oncology Department, Sunita Farouk, said patients must have a confirmed cancer diagnosis before being enrolled at the oncology clinic, with the diagnosis requiring a biopsy.
Patients are generally referred from the surgical clinic, outpatient department or another hospital before being given an appointment at the oncology clinic. Doctors determine treatment based on each patient’s diagnosis and needs, with options including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy.
The department also provides new-case and follow-up consultations, nutrition and pharmacy services, as well as oncology laboratory support.
Farouk urged patients not to view a cancer diagnosis as the end of their journey, encouraging them to remain positive and seek support throughout treatment.
“If you're told today that you're diagnosed with cancer, it's not the end. Fight. Fight. You will survive,” Farouk said, adding that the oncology team is available to support patients who may lack support at home.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, health officials are encouraging greater awareness and early detection while the oncology team continues to provide treatment and support to patients.
