DCP Budhram urges public to make use of Govt cancer screening initiatives

Deputy Police Commissioner (DPC) for Operations in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Ravindradat Budhram has sounded an urgent call for citizens to utilise several initiatives implemented by the Government that are currently available at their disposal to detect all cancerous ailments.
He made this call during an awareness walk on Saturday to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month under the theme “Every story is unique, every journey matters.”
According to Budhram, this event was one that birthed deep remembrance for persons in Guyana who have suffered at the hands of cancer.

“The significance of today’s walk was the remembrance of those who have suffered, who didn’t have sufficient health care as compared to now; there are systems to check and ensure that there is all detection of the disease so that it can be prevented, treated, or addressed at an early stage. We want to appeal to the forces to utilise the facilities that are available for early detection and early treatment. Finally, discuss the issues with the doctors, the health care workers, and their relatives.”
He added, “We also want to remember those individuals who have contributed significantly to the initiatives, different programmes, and funding to ensure that life prevails.”
Additionally, it was underlined that various events are planned for the awareness month, with the walk being inaugural.
“So today, while the force has planned a number of activities, today is the first one. We would like to take the opportunity on behalf of the Commissioner of Police and the entire force to wish all those who are suffering a speedy recovery.”
In February of 2026, it was reported that Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony stated that cancer screening, which stood at that time at 20,000, was low and needed to be increased in order for the disease to be detected and prevented at an early stage.
Back then, he reiterated that by the end of 2026, the aim is to double that figure.
However, he stressed that achieving this target will require the support and cooperation of stakeholders, including various medical institutions and more importantly, the citizenry.
While access to the programme is relatively easier along the coastline-where individuals can present vouchers and receive services-reaching residents in the hinterland regions remains challenging, the Minister stated.
Meanwhile, the Government introduced a Universal Health Care Voucher in 2025 to the tune of $10,000 to cover essential screening and laboratory tests.
This $5 billion initiative targets some 500,000 persons with the aim of increasing the willingness of Guyanese to get screened for potential illnesses, thus enabling them to access preventative healthcare if necessary.