Suva, Fiji – 22 June 2023

The Housing Authority of Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting cancer awareness, prevention and early detection through its participation in Fiji’s Biggest Morning Tea.

Speaking at the Housing Authority’s cancer awareness event today, Chief Executive Officer Mr Ritesh Singh said cancer remained a significant health concern in Fiji, with many people and families being affected by the disease.

“Cancer is the third most common cause of death in Fiji, and the Ministry of Health estimates that cancer accounts for 13.5 percent of all premature deaths in Fiji, with between 1,400 and 1,600 new cancer cases recorded each year,” Mr Singh said.

He said the reality was that almost everyone had been impacted by cancer in some way, whether through a family member, friend or colleague.

Mr Singh highlighted the importance of early detection, noting that many cancers detected in Fiji could be treated and brought into remission when identified early.

“Unfortunately, in many cases cancer is diagnosed late, with people not fully aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease or the importance of regular screening,” he said.

He said the Housing Authority had an important role to play in raising awareness among its staff and the wider community about cancer prevention, early detection and available treatment and support services.

“Our participation in Fiji’s Biggest Morning Tea is about more than coming together. It is about inspiring people to take action against this disease through education, awareness and early screening,” Mr Singh said.

The Housing Authority has been working with the Fiji Cancer Society to promote greater awareness of cancer among its staff and communities.

Mr Singh also reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to supporting the Fiji Cancer Society and helping ensure that disadvantaged members of the community have access to treatment, counselling and advice.

He said the Housing Authority would also ensure that customers affected by cancer were not subjected to stigma or discrimination that could prevent them from accessing the organisation’s services.

“Moving forward, Housing Authority will look at implementing programmes that encourage our staff to maintain healthy diets, exercise regularly and undergo screening whenever possible,” Mr Singh said.

The Housing Authority’s Fiji’s Biggest Morning Tea event brought together staff, representatives from the Fiji Cancer Society, Ms Laisa Vulakoro and her team, and members of the media to promote greater awareness and action against cancer.