Kingston, Jamaica, February 4, 2025 – As the world unites to observe World Cancer Day
on February 4, the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) reaffirms its commitment
to improving cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment under this year’s theme: “United by Unique.” This global observance serves as a reminder of the critical need for equitable
healthcare, ensuring that all Jamaicans regardless of socioeconomic background can receive
the cancer care they need.
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance cancer care, SERHA manages several key
institutions that provide essential services for cancer patients. The Hope Institute, originally
established by the Jamaica Cancer Society, was created to offer free, high-quality cancer
treatment comparable to international standards. The Hope Institute works closely with
Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) and the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) to
extend cancer care to patients who need ongoing management. Additionally, St. Joseph’s
Hospital is home to the Clinical Varian Linear Accelerator (Linac), a state-of-the-art
radiation therapy unit acquired by the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW). This
advanced system delivers targeted radiation to treat various cancers including prostate, breast, cervical, rectal, and brain tumours while protecting surrounding healthy tissue. Furthermore, Jamaica has strengthened its diagnostic capabilities with the recommissioning of the Ventana immunohistochemistry (IHC) machine at the National Public Health Laboratory, a critical tool in advanced breast cancer testing, which provides invaluable support in breast cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment by offering critical insights into the characteristics and origin of cancer, ensuring personalized and effective treatment plans for patients.
Cancer patients seeking care through SERHA facilities can access services through referrals
from public hospitals, health centres, or private practitioners. The process includes an initial
assessment, diagnostic testing, and treatment planning by oncologists and medical specialists.
Patients are encouraged to visit their nearest health centre for guidance on available services
and how to begin their treatment journey.
SERHA remains dedicated to ensuring that timely and quality cancer care is accessible to all
Jamaicans, reinforcing the national fight against cancer through innovation, collaboration,
and patient-centred care.
World Cancer Day is which observed yearly on February 4, aims to raise awareness about
cancer and promote actions to reduce the global burden of the disease. This day serves as a
reminder of the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Comentarios