As Guyana joins with the rest of the world to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Ministry of Health is reaffirming its commitment to transforming cancer care in Guyana through strategic investments in prevention, early detection, and treatment. Speaking at the Guyana Cancer Society Fundraiser in Georgetown on Sunday, Honourable Dr Frank Anthony, the Minister of Health highlighted the nation’s focused efforts on three of the most prevalent cancers affecting Guyanese: breast cancer, cervical cancer, and prostate cancer. Notably, Guyana is also preparing to expand its efforts to address anorectal cancer in 2026. “We are on a trajectory to change the course of cancer care in Guyana,” the Minister stated. “With better access, stronger partnerships, and increased public engagement, we believe Guyana can
eliminate some forms of cancer, starting with cervical cancer.” Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in Guyana. In response, the Ministry has significantly expanded access to mammography services, previously only available at the
Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). According to the Health Minister, additional mammography machines are operational at Public Hospital Suddie, Linden Hospital Complex and additional units at the GPHC. This expansion is critical to ensuring women across the country can access early and potentially life-saving diagnostics. Cervical cancer, largely preventable through Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccines, is the second most common cancer in women. Guyana has now upgraded from a quadrivalent HPV vaccine to Gardasil 9, aligning with global standards in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Thanks to a partnership with the Pan American Health Organization, vaccines costing USD $360 per dose in other regions are provided free of charge to Guyanese citizens for just $15 USD per dose at cost to the government. Vaccines are now being offered to Children aged 9–15 (both boys and girls) and Women aged 16–45. In addition, the government’s Cervical Cancer Screening Programme allows free cervical cancer screening at private laboratories, using vouchers worth GYD $8,000. Over 15,000 vouchers have
been distributed in 2025, with 18% of tested individuals requiring follow-up care, underscoring the importance of early detection. Despite cultural barriers that deter men from routine health checks, Dr Anthony is urging men to take advantage of the Universal Health Voucher valued at $10,000, which includes a PSA (Prostate- Specific Antigen) test for just GYD $4,000, fully covered by the voucher. To date, over 6,000 PSA tests have been conducted in 2025, with approximately 1,000 showing elevated levels. Men with elevated results are referred for free biopsies and follow-up care. The Health Ministry is actively working to launch of a nationwide anorectal cancer screening programme in 2026, aimed at early detection and improved patient outcomes. To support more accurate and timely diagnoses, efforts are also underway to expand training for medical professionals and upgrade diagnostic equipment.
In addition, a new laboratory dedicated to histochemistry and cancer marker testing is being established. This facility will play a vital role in enabling personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific cancer profile. Another significant enhancement includes the introduction of
intraoperative frozen section diagnostics, which will allow surgeons to perform real-time tissue analysis during operations, improving the precision and effectiveness of surgical interventions. Minister Anthony also stated that a key milestone on the horizon is the construction of Guyana’s first National Oncology Centre, developed in collaboration with the Mount Sinai Health System.
This cutting-edge facility will offer advanced diagnostic services alongside comprehensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment options. Serving as a central hub for specialized oncology care, the centre will be staffed by a team of highly trained professionals and represents a significant advancement in the country’s efforts to strengthen cancer care and treatment. While the Ministry is proud of the progress made, public cooperation remains essential. The Minister urged citizens to get screened regularly, take advantage of free vaccination and testing programmes, and help promote awareness and behaviour change within communities. “Let us aim not just to treat cancer, but to eliminate it. Together, we can make Guyana a regional leader in cancer care,” he said in closing his remarks. Also present at the event was Mr. Sharir Chan is the President of the Guyana Cancer Society.
