70 Patients Daily: New Cancer Centre Offers Hope & Care

The fight against cancer has become increasingly urgent, as the Minister of Health, Anil Bachoo, disclosed that one in every eight deaths is attributed to this disease, amounting to an alarming 13% of annual fatalities. This stark reality was underscored during a recent parliamentary session initiated by Francisco François, leader of the Organisation du Peuple de Rodrigues (OPR), at the National Assembly on Tuesday 18th March.

The New National Cancer Centre has emerged as a state-of-the-art facility, boasting advanced technology, including a PET-Scan, which is vital for effective treatment.

Daily, around 70 patients receive chemotherapy, underscoring the relentless efforts to combat this formidable illness.

The Centre, equipped with 200 beds, provides a full spectrum of cancer treatments in Mauritius, encompassing advanced chemotherapy, modern radiotherapy, image-guided surgery, and palliative care.

“Our patients undergo chemotherapy in a ‘Patient-Friendly’ environment,” Minister Bachoo affirmed, reiterating the compassionate care provided within the Centre.

This year has also marked the decentralisation of chemotherapy services to five regional hospitals, extending support further into the community.

Additionally, plans are in motion to introduce new chemotherapy agents, broadening the options available to those battling cancer.

The hospital is home to four operating theatres dedicated to oncology, where international specialists regularly visit to perform procedures and train local staff, particularly in the early detection of cancer.

Complementing this is the laboratory, playing a crucial role in conducting advanced investigations necessary for personalised treatments.

To reflect this commitment, the pharmacy remains open until 10 PM daily, ensuring that patients can access essential medications when needed.

Minister Bachoo emphasised the importance of prevention, supporting awareness programmes designed to educate the public about the risks associated with cancer.

Among these initiatives is a vaccination programme against human papillomavirus (HPV) aimed at boys and girls aged 9 to 14 in schools.

Health caravans are also organised to facilitate screenings, particularly for breast and cervical cancers, promoting early detection.

Moreover, the ministry is taking significant steps to implement palliative care and psychosocial support for patients.

A Home Care Model is being developed, allowing vital services to be delivered directly to patients, minimising the need for travel for both them and their families.

According to the National Cancer Registry Report 2023, cancer remains a leading cause of death in the nation.

The most common cancers among men include those affecting the prostate, throat, lungs, stomach, mouth, and colon. For women, the primary cancers are breast, cervical, ovarian, and colorectal.

When Francisco François raised the question of utilising advanced diagnostic methods such as artificial intelligence, Minister Bachoo assured that every effort would be made to ensure that advanced treatments available abroad are also accessible in local hospitals—demonstrating a commitment to embrace modern technology in the ongoing quest for a cancer-free future.

The New National Cancer Centre stands as a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering determination of all in the fight against this one illness’ adversaries.

Source: Le Mauricien