27/10/2026
Health Ministry launches Action Plan to strengthen Breast Cancer Management in Guyana
In a significant move towards strengthening Guyana's response to breast cancer, the Ministry of Health officially launched the Action Plan for Breast Cancer Management in Guyana, reinforcing the Government's commitment to improving prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment and comprehensive patient-centred care for women across the country.
The official launch, held yesterday at the Ministry of Health's Conference Room, Brickdam, brought together healthcare professionals, medical specialists, policymakers, advocates and key stakeholders committed to advancing breast cancer prevention and management.
The initiative represents an important step in establishing a more coordinated, accessible and effective approach to breast cancer care, with particular emphasis on strengthening healthcare systems, improving patient outcomes and ensuring that women receive timely and appropriate medical attention.
Delivering the feature address, Minister of Health, Honourable Dr. Frank Anthony, underscored the importance of strengthening Guyana's healthcare response to breast cancer through improved screening, early diagnosis, expanded treatment services and greater collaboration among healthcare providers.
The programme also featured remarks from several prominent medical professionals who continue to play instrumental roles in advancing cancer care and treatment services in Guyana.
Among the speakers were Dr. Lachmie Lall, Director of Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health; Dr. Latoya Gooding, Head of the Oncology Department at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC); and Dr. Ravi Motilall, General Surgery Consultant at GPHC.
Also contributing to the programme were Dr. Samantha Jagan, Radiologist at GPHC and Co-Chair of the National Breast Cancer Steering Committee, and Dr. Navindranauth Rambaran, Director of Medical and Professional Services at GPHC and Co-Chair of the National Breast Cancer Steering Committee.
A particularly moving segment of the ceremony featured the personal testimony of a breast cancer survivor, whose journey of courage, hope and resilience served as a powerful reminder of the human impact of the disease and the importance of accessible, compassionate and timely healthcare services.
The newly launched Action Plan places significant emphasis on strengthening the delivery of breast cancer services through a multidisciplinary and integrated healthcare approach.
Central to the initiative is improved collaboration among radiology, pathology, surgery, oncology and primary healthcare services to ensure that patients benefit from a more seamless continuum of care.
The Plan also prioritises the strengthening of referral pathways, patient navigation systems and follow-up services, recognising that effective breast cancer management extends beyond initial screening and diagnosis.
By improving coordination among healthcare professionals and institutions, the Ministry aims to reduce delays in accessing essential services while ensuring that patients receive appropriate medical guidance and support throughout their treatment journeys.
The launch comes as the Ministry of Health continues to advance investments in healthcare infrastructure, diagnostic technologies, medical equipment, specialised services and workforce development.
These ongoing efforts form part of the Government's broader commitment to modernising Guyana's healthcare system and improving access to quality healthcare services across all regions.
Through the Action Plan, greater attention will be directed towards strengthening existing systems, improving service delivery and supporting a more comprehensive national response to breast cancer.
Additionally, the Ministry recognises that public education and community participation are essential components of successful breast cancer prevention and management.
Women are therefore encouraged to remain informed about breast health, recognise potential warning signs, seek medical attention promptly and utilise available screening and diagnostic services.
Early detection remains a critical factor in improving treatment outcomes and increasing the likelihood of successful breast cancer management.
The Ministry of Health acknowledges the significant contributions of the National Breast Cancer Steering Committee, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, healthcare professionals, non-governmental organisations, cancer advocates and other stakeholders whose expertise, dedication and collaboration have contributed to the development of the Action Plan.
Their collective efforts continue to play an important role in strengthening breast cancer services, supporting patients and promoting greater awareness throughout Guyana.
The official presentation of the Action Plan marked a defining moment in the country's ongoing efforts to address breast cancer through evidence-informed strategies, strengthened partnerships and coordinated healthcare interventions.
As Guyana continues to transform its healthcare landscape, the launch of the Action Plan for Breast Cancer Management reinforces a clear national priority: ensuring that every woman, regardless of her geographic location or circumstances, has improved access to timely, coordinated and compassionate breast cancer care.
The Ministry of Health remains committed to working alongside healthcare professionals, communities and partners to advance breast cancer awareness, strengthen services and improve health outcomes for women throughout Guyana.
Hope starts with action, and through collective action, Guyana continues to move towards a future where more lives can be protected and saved.
