The Government of Guyana has taken a laudable step in intensifying its healthcare initiatives, particularly in response to the alarming rise in cases of prostate and cervical cancer. With 203 confirmed cases of prostate cancer among men and an overwhelming 2,000 cases of cervical cancer among women in 2024, the need for robust early detection and treatment strategies has never been more urgent.
Recognising this growing health crisis, President Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding screening and treatment programmes nationwide. This proactive approach not only enhances the healthcare system, but also underscores Government’s dedication to safeguarding public health.
A major milestone in this effort is the nationwide cervical cancer screening initiative launched in 2024. This initiative has provided valuable data to guide public healthcare expenditure and policy decisions. As of now, over 12,000 women between the ages of 21 and 65 have undergone screening, with a startling 17 percent testing positive, translating to more than 2,040 confirmed cases. This data is instrumental in shaping targeted interventions to combat cervical cancer effectively.
Similarly, prostate cancer screening has been expanded significantly. In 2024, more than 13,688 Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests were conducted, revealing that 19 percent of men tested had elevated PSA levels. Of those, 536 individuals underwent biopsies, with an alarming 38 percent testing positive for prostate cancer. These statistics highlight the urgent need for increased public awareness and participation in early screening programmes.
President Ali, in a live broadcast on Thursday, urged citizens to prioritise early screening to facilitate timely intervention and treatment. He emphasised the importance of early detection in not only improving patient outcomes, but also reducing the long-term financial burden on the healthcare system.
Beyond cancer care, the Government’s broader healthcare investments are yielding remarkable results. The number of patients benefitting from Government’s assistance programmes has surged by 700 percent in recent years. A striking example of this is the increase in individuals receiving hearing aids. In 2019, only 684 patients had benefitted from this programme; in 2024, that number has risen to nearly 3,000.
Additionally, dialysis treatment has been expanded exponentially, ensuring that more citizens receive life-saving care. In 2019, only 64 patients had access to free dialysis treatment. Today, over 550 patients benefit from this initiative across multiple regions.
This demonstrates the administration’s resolve to make essential healthcare services more accessible and affordable to all citizens.
Eye care services have also seen significant improvements. In 2024 alone, an astounding 68,320 eye tests were conducted, leading to nearly 55,000 individuals receiving free prescription glasses. Further, cataract surgeries have surged dramatically, with 3,665 procedures having been performed at Port Mourant Hospital in the past four years — a stark contrast to the mere 16 surgeries conducted between 2015 and 2020. These advancements exemplify the Government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens through improved vision care.
President Ali has reiterated his government’s dedication to providing a world-class healthcare system that prioritises prevention, early detection, and treatment. The expansion of regional medical facilities, increased accessibility to diagnostic tools, and the implementation of free treatment programmes illustrate a forward-thinking and proactive approach to public health.
As Guyana continues to advance its healthcare infrastructure, it is imperative that citizens play an active role in their well-being by utilising the services available to them. Public awareness campaigns, community outreaches, and educational initiatives must complement the Government’s efforts to ensure that early screening becomes a norm, rather than an exception.
The strides made in healthcare over the past few years are commendable, but there is always room for further improvement. Continued investments in technology, training for medical personnel, and strategic partnerships with global institutions will be crucial in sustaining these gains. The Government’s vision of a healthier, more resilient population is well within reach, but it requires collective effort from both policymakers and the public.
