Medical doctor Velda Wade has warned that Dominica is facing an alarming rise in cancer cases, describing the situation as a national crisis that demands urgent attention and greater emphasis on prevention.
Dr. Wade delivered the warning while addressing the Annual General Meeting of the Dominica Cancer Society at the UWI Global Campus on Saturday. Speaking as guest speaker at the event, she stressed that the growing number of cancer cases on the island should not be underestimated.
According to Dr. Wade, there are currently approximately 300 cancer patients in Dominica, including individuals undergoing treatment, patients in remission, persons receiving end-of-life care and those who are in the process of being diagnosed.
“Because of the health and financial implications of cancer, 300 cases in a small population like ours, in my own words, is an epidemic,” Dr. Wade stated. “This is alarming. This is dangerous. It is heartbreaking. This is a nation under attack.“
She emphasized that while advances in treatment continue to improve outcomes for many patients, prevention remains one of the most effective tools in reducing the burden of cancer.
Drawing on information from the World Health Organization and the International Agency for Research on Cancer, Dr. Wade noted that as many as 40 percent of all cancer cases globally could potentially be prevented through changes in lifestyle, environmental factors and exposure to infectious agents.
According to Dr. Wade, individuals have the ability to reduce their risk of developing cancer by adopting healthier lifestyles, reducing tobacco and alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity and participating in recommended screening programmes.
“We each have the power to prevent 40 percent of all cancers,” she said, urging citizens to take personal responsibility for their health and wellbeing.
The Dominica Cancer Society has continued to advocate for greater public awareness, early detection and support services for cancer patients and their families. The organization has also been promoting educational programmes aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles and increasing understanding of cancer risk factors.
Dr. Wade’s remarks come at a time when non-communicable diseases, including cancer, continue to represent a significant public health challenge throughout the Caribbean region. Health professionals maintain that early diagnosis, regular screening and preventative measures remain critical in improving survival rates and reducing the overall impact of the disease.
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