Cancer Institute doctor urges Guyanese to prioritise early cancer detection

Dr Syed Ghazi of the Cancer Institute is urging Guyanese to go beyond awareness when it comes to cancer, emphasising the critical importance of early detection.
This urgency was made during a recent interview with this publication.
Dr Ghazi emphasised the importance of education and community outreach in the fight against cancer, noting that awareness alone is not enough to combat the disease. “I personally have spoken with the employees of different corporates, you know, creating awareness about breast cancer, cervical cancer, early detection, and family support – how families should act for the people who are suffering,” he said.

He explained that cancer extends far beyond the medical diagnosis, affecting patients and their families in multiple ways.
“Cancer is a very complex situation where you need help in a lot of aspects, like the financial aspect and psychological support, and so the Cancer Institute has contributed not only in treatment or screening or providing chemotherapy and radiation, but we have actually created awareness in the society,” Dr Ghazi added.
By engaging with communities, workplaces, and families, the Cancer Institute aims to ensure that Guyanese are informed about the early signs of cancer and understand the importance of both emotional and practical support for those undergoing treatment. This approach, he stressed, is key to improving survival rates and helping patients navigate the challenges of their diagnosis.
The doctor highlighted the need for a modern, state-of-the-art oncology centre in Guyana, which would offer advanced diagnostic tools, treatment, patient support, and public awareness initiatives.
“More importantly, we would have the support of partnerships this Government is developing with institutions across the sea, which would bring a very healthy and positive contribution to healthcare in Guyana. I do believe that we are having a very big leap towards progress in medical health here,” he said.
Addressing the concerning rise in cancer-related deaths in Guyana since 2022, he acknowledged that awareness campaigns alone have not been enough to curb the trend. “There is an increase in deaths due to these cancers. Although we are creating awareness, some of this is due to ignorance on the part of the public. Sometimes there is denial – people may notice a lump or mass but hesitate to see a doctor, fearing the treatment or the diagnosis,” he explained.
The doctor emphasised that this delay in seeking medical attention significantly impacts survival rates.
“If you look from the other angle, early detection means that you’ll be saved; you’ll survive.” He noted that cancers such as breast, cervical, and prostate cancer, which are among the most common in Guyana, are highly treatable if caught early. Beyond medical screening, Dr Ghazi highlighted the role of lifestyle in preventing cancer. He urged Guyanese to adopt healthier habits, pointing to obesity, smoking, and other risk factors as areas where prevention is possible.
“By taking proactive steps to protect ourselves and reduce risk factors, we can complement early detection efforts and improve outcomes for the population,” he said.