(Kaieteur News) – The Oncology Clinic within the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) — Guyana‘s national referral hospital has recorded 528 new cancer patients including 107 new breast cancer patients for the first eight months of 2026.
Additionally, the hospital recorded 4115 follow up visits, 321patients who commenced chemotherapy and 214 patients who completed chemotherapy.
As Guyana’s national referral hospital, GPHC plays a central role in the country’s cancer response. Through its Oncology Clinic, the hospital serves as the main cancer treatment centre in Guyana, providing cancer care free of charge to Guyanese. The figures were released to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.
The observance started with a powerful Breast Cancer Awareness pinning ceremony, bringing together patients, cancer survivors, healthcare workers and supporters to recognise the importance of early detection, treatment, support and hope.
GPHC launched its month of activity in observance of Breast Cancer awareness.
Dr. Latoya Gooding, Head of the Oncology Department, highlighted the progress being made in breast cancer care, noting a decline in late-stage diagnoses. She also shared that 107 new breast cancer cases have been recorded at the clinic so far this year, noting that increased awareness may be contributing to more people seeking care.
“Breast cancer can be detected early, treatment is available, and people know where they can come to get treatment.”
Dr. Gooding reaffirmed the department’s commitment to providing quality and standardised cancer care to every patient who comes through its doors:
“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.”
The awareness ceremony also gave a voice to people who have experienced cancer firsthand.
GPHC staff member and breast cancer patient Dr. Gina Chin spoke openly about the fear and uncertainty that accompanied her diagnosis at age 31, while highlighting the support she received throughout her journey.
“Because of your support, I face this with a stronger heart, a grateful spirit, and hope for better days ahead.”
Cancer survivor Mr. Goberdhan Ramautar shared a message of determination and resilience:
“Life is not meant to be feared. It’s your perspective and how you want to accept it. And I choose to fight.”
For nine-year cancer survivor and Giving Hope Cancer Ambassador Desiree Edghill, the pink pin represented far more than 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.”
Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Navindranauth Rambaran emphasised that early detection and awareness remain essential in the fight against cancer, encouraging communities to become advocates for screening and early diagnosis.
“We also want to diagnose it very early and prevent it. It’s heartening now to see that we are seeing these cases at the earliest stage, and that fosters well for better outcomes.”
In a release, GPHC noted that Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about breast cancer, have conversations about early detection, seek appropriate screening, and pay attention to changes in their health.
According to GPHC, the Oncology Clinic’s services are delivered by a dedicated 22-member team, comprising doctors, nurses, clerks, Patient Care Assistants (PCAs), a pharmacist and a social worker. The team provides oncology services at GPHC Monday to Friday, supporting patients throughout diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.
The clinic also extends its services beyond Georgetown through its outreach clinic in Berbice, Region Six.
As such during the January to August period, the outreach service recorded 10 new patients and 360 additional follow-up visits for chemotherapy treatment, helping to bring specialised cancer care closer to patients outside of Georgetown.
GPHC also recognised the commitment of every member of the Oncology team who continues to serve patients with professionalism, compassion and dedication.
Source: Kaieteur News
