SEVENTY PER CENT of the burden associated with the diagnosis and treatment of the disease cancer will fall to the developing world in the near future. This alarm was sounded by Professor Suzanne Shirley, while delivering the main address at the launch of the Lion's Club Cancer Project, held recently at the Main Medical Lecture Theatre, University of the West Indies, Mona.
Professor Shirley described the existing situation as a global pandemic. However, she said that shifts were being noted in the incidences of certain cancers from the first world to the developing world, and this would create new challenges for the developing world to deal with.
Speaking at the launch of the project, President of the Lion's Club of St. Andrew, Claudette Brown, said that the membership of the organisation is acutely aware of the high incidence of cancer in Jamaica and is very committed to doing their part in helping to identify appropriate strategies for prevention and control of this disease.
Mrs. Brown said that the club, in consultation with the University of the West Indies, has undertaken this ongoing project with the primary objectives of assisting with new and ongoing Cancer research at the University, assisting patients who are in need of diagnostic tests, treatment and support services and assisting public institutions and the Jamaica Cancer Society to purchase equipment.
Three persons participated in a symbolic candle-lighting ceremony to launch the project. Glynne Manley, Professor Carlos Escoffery and Lion Victor Patterson represented family members of cancer patients, the university and the Lions Club respectively.
