The Cancer Institute of Guyana today announced that it will be offering free mammograms for women throughout the month of October, as it launched its Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities in partnership with Guyana Beverages Incorporated and other corporate entities and non-governmental organizations.
In addition to free mammograms during the month of October, the Cancer Institute will also be lowering the cost of mammograms and breast ultrasounds to ensure that cost is never a barrier to care. It will also be hosting a series of education and outreach programmes.
The Cancer Institute’s CFO, Arun Simon said it is important for women to be screened for cancer, pointing out that breast cancer remains one of the leading health challenges in Guyana and across the Caribbean. He reminded, however, that early detection saves lives.
“Too many of our mothers, sisters, daughters and friends are diagnosed late, when treatment is most difficult. But we know one thing for certain: early detection saves lives. That is why October is not just a month of awareness for us – it is a call to action, a time to empower women and families with knowledge, access to screening and support,” Simon said.
The Cancer Institute’s Manager, Monette Harry, said the Institute’s theme for its Breast Cancer Awareness campaign “Act Now, Live Strong: Empowering Women in the Battle against Breast Cancer” is important, as it represents the institute’s mission to encourage women to prioritize their breast health and take proactive steps, including regular screening.
“Breast cancer remains the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer death among women in Guyana. In 2023, it accounted for nearly 30% of all cancers diagnosed in women and over 17% of cancer deaths, according to the Ministry of Health’s Cancer Registry. At CIG, the number of women treated for breast cancer over the past six years has been significant: 2020, 47 patients; 2021, 57 patients; 2022, 42 patients; 2023, 37 patients; 2024, 38 patients and 2025 from January to September, 31 patients,” Harry detailed.
Harry said overall, breast cancer screening rates remain low in Guyana, although awareness has improved.
Early detection, she stressed, significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, and reduces the need for aggressive therapy while improving the quality of life for patients and their families.
“At CIG, we see women every day who are seeking preventive care, undergoing treatment, or living as survivors. Each diagnosis impacts not just the individual but their families and communities. Breast cancer can affect women at any age, and we are committed to supporting them at every stage of their breast health journey,” Harry said.
Meanwhile, the General Manager of Guyana Beverages Inc, Samuel Arjoon, said Guyana Beverages is pleased to partner with the Cancer Institute.
He said as the platinum sponsor, Guyana Beverages will team up with the Cancer Institute to raise awareness, inspire action and support the fight against breast cancer.
“Breast cancer touches the lives of so many families in Guyana and around the world. Early detection, education and access to care remain critical in saving lives. This is why Guyana Beverages Inc believes that businesses must play a meaningful role in bringing attention to this important cause and supporting organizations that are making a difference every day,” Arjoon said.
As part of the partnership with the Cancer Institute, Oasis Water bottles will feature special pink caps and labels throughout October. It was explained that proceeds from the sale of each bottle of Oasis Water with the pink cap and label will directly contribute to the cause. The beverage company is expected to donate a minimum of $1.5 Million to the Cancer Institute.
Other partners include Basheir and Son’s Construction Inc, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Guyana Power and Light, Edward B. Beharry Group of Companies, Guyana Credit Union, the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) and the Periwinkle Cancer Club.
Andrea Joseph of the Periwinkle Club spoke of the importance of providing support to persons battling cancer, while Donna Cummings, who is a cancer survivor, said the support she received from their family, friends, including those at the Periwinkle Club and the doctors, pushed her on during her fight against cancer.
The Cancer Institute was founded in 2006. Since then, it has played a critical role in the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer in Guyana. It offers radiotherapy, chemotherapy and advanced diagnostic imaging, and has built a center of hope, healing and compassion where patients are not just treated but supported as part of a family.
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