The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr Aalisha Sahu-Khan with CMNHS team at Pasifika Campus.

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) hosted a public cancer screening and awareness programme yesterday at the Pasifika Campus as part of its Pinktober activities, reinforcing the importance of cancer awareness, prevention and early detection.

The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr Aalisha Sahu-Khan.

The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr Aalisha Sahu-Khan, reminded participants that many cancer cases, continue to be diagnosed at an advanced stage, emphasising that greater awareness and timely screening can save lives.

“While Pinktober traditionally focuses on breast cancer, today we are also raising awareness about the fight against oral cancer. Oral cancer is a debilitating disease that affects functions we often take for granted, the ability to speak, eat, swallow and smile. Because many cases are detected late, awareness and early detection can be lifesaving,” Dr Sahu-Khan said.

“Beyond the numbers and statistics, there is a human story. We are privileged to hear a personal testimony from Ms Premila Devi today. Thank you for your courage in sharing your journey with us. Her experience reminds us that addressing cancer is a shared responsibility across government, academia and civil society,” the Permanent Secretary added.

She also stated that partners such as the Fiji Cancer Society continue to provide unwavering support, serving as a lifeline for many patients and their families.

“To the students of this institution, you are the future of this fight. Every one of you who learn about the signs of early detection today can become an advocate, carrying this life-saving message to your villages and communities,” Dr Sahu-Khan reiterated.

The Acting Dean of College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Dr Amelia Turagabeci.

The Acting Dean of CMNHS, Dr Amelia Turagabeci, said the programme extended beyond the traditional focus of Pinktober by highlighting the importance of cancer awareness and early intervention across a range of cancers, particularly oral, head and neck cancers.

“This reminds us that oral health is an integral part of overall health and plays a vital role in protecting the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities,” Dr Turagabeci said.

She added that FNU had a responsibility to prepare graduates who were equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the compassion and professionalism needed to deliver quality healthcare.

“As an institution responsible for educating the next generation of healthcare professionals, we have a responsibility to ensure our graduates leave with more than technical knowledge. They must be able to recognise early signs of concern, communicate with compassion, and work collaboratively to ensure patients receive timely, appropriate and person-centred care,” she further stated.

The programme brought together healthcare professionals, students, members of the public and partner organisations to promote greater understanding of cancer prevention, encourage regular screening, and strengthen community awareness of the importance of early detection in improving health outcomes.