Action needed to overcome cancer screening fears – One Communications CEO urges

One Communications Chief Executive Officer Abraham has called for greater efforts to address the fear and uncertainty that often prevent persons from seeking cancer screening and treatment, stressing that awareness campaigns must go beyond slogans and translate into action.
Abraham made the call during the launch of Pinktober 2026, which the company is spearheading in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Champions of Hope.
The campaign, launched on Wednesday last themed “Many Journeys, One Hope,” is renewing the call for Guyanese to prioritise early cancer screening and continue the practice beyond the month of October.
According to Abraham, who lost his father to cancer, addressing the fears surrounding screening is an important part of the campaign.
“This year, we want to make sure that hope goes beyond words. And that was something that came out very clearly as we sat with the Honourable Health Minister and with the team. That this has to go beyond slogans and make sure that it turns into action. And so today, with the Ministry of Health, we’re strengthening that connection between awareness and action. It’s not enough for us to tell someone, ‘Go get screened.’”
“We must also help them understand where screening is available, address the fear and uncertainty that cause people to delay seeking care, and wherever we can, we must help remove some of those practical barriers that stand in the way.”
Highlighting the benefits of removing fear from conversations surrounding cancer screening, Abraham further outlined efforts to make screening more accessible to persons affected by cancer.
“This year, some of our Champions of Hope will receive screening vouchers, the mammogram vouchers helping more persons access the services they need. Through our partnership with the Ministry of Health, we will also amplify information about available screening services and encourage people to take that important next step for their health. While Pinktober has traditionally focused on women and breast cancer, One Hope is for everyone affected by cancer.”
Men adequately informed
Another key focus of the campaign is ensuring that men are adequately informed about cancer screening.
Efforts are underway to encourage men to undergo PSA testing. As part of the initiative, the company, together with its NGO partners, will also provide grocery vouchers to persons undergoing treatment and survivors who need additional support.
“This year, we will also raise awareness around health and PSA testing, encouraging men to speak with healthcare professionals, understand the services available, and take their health more seriously.
“Cancer doesn’t discriminate based on age or gender or circumstance. One Hope is for the woman who needs a mammogram, the man who’s been postponing a conversation with their doctor, the person undergoing treatment, the survivor, the caregiver, and the family navigating what comes next.
“As others have mentioned, a cancer diagnosis affects far more than one person’s health. It impacts households. It impacts mental well-being, family responsibilities, and that’s why, with some of our NGO partners, we will provide grocery vouchers.”