Cancer is the third leading cause of deaths here in Fiji and more than 1,200 new cases are recorded annually.
These figures are attributed to late detection or lack of awareness and knowledge.
President of the Fiji Cancer Society Phillip Low says changing the perception of the community at large is paramount in ensuring the reduction in the number of people succumbing to cancer.
He says funds raised from the Bushells Fiji’s Biggest Morning Tea will be utilized in increasing awareness in the community and provide more screening programs in collaboration with the Oncology nurses at the CWMH.
Last year, the biggest morning tea was launched in mid‑September and ran till the end of October to coincide with PinkTober.
The two initiatives combined raised over $140,000. These funds have been utilized to provide transportation services for patients to and from hospitals for chemotherapy and review, purchase of medication which is not on the Afree@ medicine drug list and care packs.
To date, the society has spent just over $30,000 and will provide the same services to patients in Lautoka and Labasa by the end of the year.
Low says about 120 patients have been assisted with the funds that are donated and the number will continue to increase.
11 companies have either hosted or will be hosting morning tea to raise funds for cancer by the end of September compared to 4 companies last year.
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