FNU’s Assistant Professor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology with the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Dr Byron Fatiaki speaking at the Cancer Awareness programme at the Northern Club in Lautoka over the weekend.

“Get treated early so that you can return disease-free and live the life you deserve with your families.”

These were the words echoed by the Fiji National University’s Assistant Professor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Dr Byron Fatiaki, in Lautoka over the weekend.

His address followed the programme titled ‘Cancer Awareness: A Collaborative Effort to Reduce its Incidence’, held at the Northern Club in Lautoka — a joint initiative in collaboration with the Fiji Cancer Society.

The programme brought together members of the Northern Club and the wider public to raise awareness and strengthen community engagement in the fight against cancer.

Participants that turned up to the Cancer Awareness programme at the Northern Club in Lautoka over the weekend.

Dr Fatiaki strongly encouraged both members of the Northern Club and the public to prioritise early detection.

“I hosted this event on behalf of the Fiji National University alongside the Fiji Cancer Society in the hope of generating funds to support the Society in implementing its various initiatives,” he said.

“We hope this programme has increased awareness of the challenges that may present as cancer.

“With a better understanding of the possible signs — how they may feel, appear, or present — we trust that individuals will be empowered to seek medical attention early and present themselves to hospitals without delay.”

He highlighted that, in relation to prostate cancer, men over the age of 50 were encouraged to seek early detection if they experienced any symptoms.

“I would like to encourage those above the age of 50, who may be experiencing issues with urination or noticing any unusual colour in their urine, to present themselves at the nearest hospital,” Dr Fatiaki added.

“There is a test known as the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test. This helps raise clinical suspicion and allows us to possibly detect the problem early and treat it accordingly.”

The Chief Guest and President of the Fiji Medical Association, Dr Alipate Vakamocea, thanked Dr Fatiaki for leading the programme and noted that the Association continues to work towards protecting and strengthening the medical profession.

Chief Guest and the president of the Fiji Medical Association, Dr Alipate Vakamocea addressing the audience at the Cancer Awareness programme at the Northern Club in Lautoka over the weekend.

Fiji Cancer Society CEO, Ms Belinda Chan, also acknowledged Dr Fatiaki and his team for their outstanding work in supporting the Society.

Fiji Cancer Society CEO, Belinda Chan delivering her address at the Cancer Awareness programme at the Northern Club in Lautoka over the weekend.

“We stand united in our shared mission to raise awareness, strengthen collaboration, and reduce the incidence of cancer in our communities,” said Ms Chan.

“For over 32 years, the Fiji Cancer Society has been a beacon of hope, and in the past decade, we have sharpened our focus on improving patient outcomes, supporting clinicians, and extending our reach.”

She added that the Society’s work is deeply rooted in communities and that its vision extends beyond Fiji.

“At the heart of our work are the patients, and our patient support department ensures that no one goes through their journey alone,” she added.