Health facilities in Linden are making use of Cancer Awareness Month to promote screenings for cervical and breast cancers.
The One Mile Health Centre, in particular, arranged a special day of screening under the theme “Keeping Her in the Picture.”
The One Mile Health Centre in Linden recently held a dedicated day of screening, marking Cancer Awareness Month.
The center extended its services to offer complimentary breast examinations, Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), and Pap smears.
Eslyn Allicock, a seasoned midwife, emphasized the importance of VIA, highlighting that early detection is a crucial factor in preventing cancer.
It is recommended for young ladies to consider undergoing VIA at least once every year, as it provides a good chance of detecting any early changes or pre-cancerous lesions, according to Allicock.
VIA screenings are presently underway at six sites across Linden, including prominent healthcare centers like the Linden Hospital Complex, Upper Demerara Hospital, One Mile, Leticia Holder, and Bamia Health Centres.
Dawn Bagot, a member of the Linden Cancer Society, actively administers Pap smears at the One Mile Health Centre on designated Fridays of every month.
She recommends this test for women aged 50 and above.
It is a straightforward, painless, and comfortable test, Bagot reassured.
A Pap smear remains a pivotal screening technique for cervical cancer. It effectively helps identify symptoms such as unusual vaginal bleeding, atypical discharge, and pelvic discomfort. Bagot conducted a live demonstration of the procedure, explaining each step.
The samples obtained are then sent to a laboratory in Georgetown for meticulous examination.
Following testing, results are communicated back to the health center.
In cases where the test indicates the presence of cancerous cells, the individual receives counseling and is promptly referred to a specialist for further treatment.
Nurse Odetta Hyderkhan, on the same occasion, conducted comprehensive breast examinations.
She also provided invaluable guidance on conducting self-examinations, offering insights on what to observe for.
Cancer Awareness Month presents a valuable opportunity for women to prioritize their well-being by engaging in these vital screenings.
Early detection remains a linchpin for effective cancer prevention and treatment.
Shawnette Fiedtkou, NCN News