Minister with the responsibility for Health, Dr. Irving McIntyre said that his Government has shown its commitment to fighting cancer in Dominica.

“The Ministry of Health has put certain strategies and policies in place that we should all take advantage of. For instance, at all our health districts there is cancer screening going on, so as regards to your mammogram, regards to your pap smear, regards to your prostate tests, your PSA’s, these are all available and we should make use of them”.

The Minister also referenced other measures put in place by the Government which includes taxes on sugar sweetened beverages,  tobacco and tobacco products and alcohol as a means of discouraging persons from consuming such. He also mentioned the recently introduced HPV vaccine given to students in Grade 6 to prevent against cervical cancer.

He commended the efforts of the Dominica Cancer Association for all that they do in raising awareness, making financial contributions towards treatment of persons as well as providing needed emotional support.

Dr. McIntyre reminded patrons of the event that 40% of cancers can be prevented while 30% of cancers can be cured once they are detected early.