The Ministry of Health, in partnership with One Communication and Champion of Hope (NGOs), officially launched Pinktober 2025 today under the theme “Act Now, Live Strong”.
Pinktober, observed annually in October, honours Cancer Awareness Month underscoring the importance of early screening, timely access to treatment, and strengthened palliative care services in Guyana.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Dr Dianele Drepaul, Chronic Disease Coordinator, stressed the need for cancer awareness efforts to extend beyond October.
“This is not just a month marked by the colour pink. Every October, many wear pink and go for screening, but once the month ends, the efforts die down. We need to emphasise that every day we should take initiative to protect our health not only from breast cancer, but from all chronic diseases. Far too often, Guyanese wait until they are very ill before seeking medical care, expecting miracles at the last moment. Early detection saves lives.”
Dr Drepaul also reminded the audience that breast cancer affects both women and men, and is currently the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Guyana. She shared a personal story about her grandmother, who survived breast cancer following early detection and treatment, emphasising the life-saving value of timely screenings.
The launch marked the start of a month-long calendar of activities aimed at spreading awareness, encouraging preventive health practices, and offering support to cancer survivors and their families.
Dr Dianele Drepaul Chronic Disease Coordinator giving remarks
Representative from Ministry of Health, one Communication and NGO’s