This year the Fiji Cancer Society has registered over 182 cancer cases, 69 of which are breast cancer cases in Fiji.
The organization reached more than 13,200 people and performed breast examinations on more than 2,629 women and referred more than 118 abnormal breast cases for further diagnosis and treatment in the past four years.
For the organization, each referral represents a person, a mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend, who now has a fighting chance because awareness led to screening and screening brought hope.
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The organization firmly believes that early detection remains its most powerful tool. It further stated that awareness signified the presence of breast cancer. It urges women to take action, which means ordering a clinical breast exam or mammogram.
It also means monthly self-examination and recognizing the symptoms – a lump, skin changes, nipple inversion and knowing what is normal for you. The organization’s message to women is “don’t let fear hold you back, let awareness propel you forward.”
It emphasized that the action doesn’t stop at the shows; It lives in our daily choices. In addition, it said that while some risk factors were beyond our control, many were not.
A balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol and giving up a huge slice of cake during the party are not just good habits. It advised that they are protective measures we can all take, and let your actions be a commitment to your health.
Medical Services Pacific (MSP) staff during the Pinktober awareness program at Lions Park, Labasa on October 22, 2025.
Photo: Shratika Naidu
Onion March
“No one should face illness or struggle alone.”
This was the message from the North Division doctors, Dr. Tiko Saumalua, as the medical staff marched through the streets of Labasa town to Lions Park yesterday during the Pinktober and mental health awareness program.
He thanked participants from other organizations who joined the walk and said their presence – dressed in pink T-shirts – turned the streets into a sea of pink.
“This walk was a beautiful symbol of unity, awareness and empowerment,” Dr. Saumalua said.
“It was a walk with purpose, a walk with love and a walk with hope.”
He encouraged the gathering to give the walk a reminder that awareness leads to action and action leads to change.
Dr. Saumalua also urged the participants, including cancer survivors and their families, to continue supporting each other – not just today, but every day.
“No one should have to face illness or struggle alone and that’s why we’re observing Pinktober and mental health awareness together this month,” she said.
“We hope this one-day event has reached many with the message to support and advocate for each other in any health challenge.”
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