The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has recorded 107 new breast cancer cases at its Oncology Clinic so far this year, with the head of the department reporting a decline in late-stage diagnoses.
According to a hospital Facebook post marking the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr Latoya Gooding said increased awareness might be encouraging more people to seek care.
“Breast cancer can be detected early, treatment is available, and people know where they can come to get treatment,” Gooding said.
The hospital began its October observances with a pinning ceremony attended by patients, cancer survivors, healthcare workers and supporters.
GPHC said its Oncology Clinic recorded 528 new cancer patients and 4,115 follow-up visits between January and August 2026. During that period, 321 patients commenced chemotherapy and 214 completed treatment. These figures cover cancer patients generally, rather than breast cancer alone.
Its outreach clinic in Region Six recorded a further 10 new patients and 360 follow-up visits for chemotherapy during the same period, the hospital stated.
GPHC said it provides cancer care free of charge to Guyanese and also receives patients from elsewhere in the Caribbean. Its oncology services are delivered Monday to Friday by a 22-member team comprising doctors, nurses, clerks, patient care assistants, a pharmacist and a social worker.
Gooding reaffirmed the department’s commitment to standardised treatment.
“Every patient, once you walk through this door, you will be treated with standardised first-line care that is available anywhere in the world. And that is our commitment to you,” she said.
The hospital’s post did not provide figures showing the extent of the reported decline in late-stage breast cancer diagnoses or a comparison with previous years.
At the ceremony, GPHC staff member and breast cancer patient Dr Gina Chin spoke about the fear and uncertainty surrounding her diagnosis at age 31 and the support she had received.
“Because of your support, I face this with a stronger heart, a grateful spirit, and hope for better days ahead,” Chin said.
Cancer survivor Goberdhan Ramautar also spoke of his determination to confront the disease.
“Life is not meant to be feared. It’s your perspective and how you want to accept it. And I choose to fight,” he said.
Desiree Edghill, a nine-year cancer survivor and Giving Hope Cancer Ambassador, said the pink pin symbolised solidarity with patients as well as awareness.
“A pin may be small, but what it represents is powerful. It represents awareness, courage, hope, support, and the promise that no one has to walk this journey alone,” she said.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Navindranauth Rambaran emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and encouraged communities to promote screening and awareness.
GPHC urged members of the public to learn more about breast cancer, seek appropriate screening and pay attention to changes in their health throughout the October observance.
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