Minister Lynda Tabuya to Host Big Morning Tea for Breast Cancer Research

To promote awareness and raise funds for breast cancer research and support services, Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya, is organizing a Big Morning Tea on October 30.

This event marks the conclusion of the Pinktober Campaign.

Tabuya's announcement coincides with the International Day for Rural Women, a day established by the UN General Assembly to honor the vital contributions of rural women to agriculture, rural development, food security, and the fight against rural poverty.

This year's focus will be on increasing awareness of sexual and reproductive health cancers, with particular emphasis on breast cancer.

According to the Fiji Country Gender Assessment, breast cancer accounted for 41% of cancer diagnoses among Fijian women in 2017, underscoring its significance as a pressing health concern.

The upcoming event will serve as a platform to stand in solidarity with those affected by breast cancer, promoting early detection and education.

Minister Tabuya emphasizes the importance of these initiatives in raising awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and available treatment options.

By fostering knowledge about breast cancer and advocating for health initiatives, the Minister aims to empower women in their communities to drive positive change.

She acknowledges that rural women, who play crucial roles in agriculture and community life, often face unique challenges in accessing healthcare services, which can diminish their health and productivity.

Barriers such as limited access to screenings and treatments can hinder timely diagnoses, leading to poorer health outcomes.

Furthermore, Tabuya highlights the impact of gender-based violence on rural women, which not only creates physical and emotional trauma but also limits their access to essential health services.

To support victims and survivors of domestic and gender-based violence, the Ministry has established a toll-free helpline at 1560, urging everyone to come together to break the silence on violence.