DoWH observe World Cancer Day 2025

World Cancer Day is observed on the 4th of February every year and is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about cancer, promoting early detection, prevention, and treatment, and advocating for improved access to healthcare services for cancer patients. It provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide to unite in the fight against cancer.

In observance of the day, the Occupational Health & Safety section under Policy Compliance Division hosted an awareness session at the TSB Conference room at 10:00 am on Tuesday, 04th February 2025.

Representing Paradise Private Hospital, Dr. Christina Abels and Media Officer Sarah Sydney make time available to come speak to DoWH staff about cancer.

Opening remarks made by FAS - Policy Compliance - Mr. William Kupe. He thanked Paradise Private Hospital reps for making time available to be here despite their busy schedule. Sharing his personal experiences of having relatives who succumbed to cancer and the experience he had to go through to watch them endure the pain and suffering without him being able to do anything. It is sad to see relatives, friends, or neighbors who are silently suffering from cancer. We are hoping the government, scientists, and specialists find a solution said, FAS - PCD - Mr. William Kupe.

Dr. Christina Abels has described cancer as the uncontrollable growth of damaged cells in the human body, and over time it produces more abnormal cells, which override the normal and healthy cells in the human body. Dr. Abel also highlighted the risk factors, which are things or habits that push one closer to getting cancer. As well as identifying the modifiable (things one can change), e.g., diet and lifestyle, and non-modifiable (things one cannot change), e.g., genetics and history of cancer.

Dr. Abels has encouraged everyone to identify what makes them tend to reach for unhealthy things and start to eliminate or replace them with good habits.

After Dr. Abels’ presentation, we had an open discussion, or rather, a question-and-answer session, and all the questions raised were noted and answered by Dr. Abels.

The information session ends on a good note with closing remarks by Manager—Occupational Health & Safety—Naomi Parker. She thanked DoWH staff who made time available to attend the awareness session and is hoping for a good turnout next time, as most staff did not attend.