Medical expert calls for regional action to tackle rising cancer rates

An international cancer expert has called for urgent regional collaboration as cancer rates in the Caribbean continue to climb.

Speaking at the Caribbean Gynecologic Cancer Society meeting in Barbados on Saturday, Medical Director for Robotic Surgery at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, Dr John Diaz, highlighted a sobering reality for the host country: Barbados currently records over 1 000 new cancer cases annually among a population of just 230 000.

“That ratio is actually higher than in many other parts of the world,” Dr Diaz noted, pointing to a critical need for integrated care.

He explained that while cancer cases are increasing globally, the Caribbean faces unique hurdles, particularly regarding resource allocation and early detection.

“We’re missing some of the opportunities for screening and prevention. If we can catch disease early, we can certainly intervene and increase our cure rates.”

A primary concern for the region is the disproportionately high rate of cervical cancer compared to the developed world. Dr Diaz emphasised that expanded access to Pap smears and higher uptake of the HPV vaccine are vital. He observed a persistent “reluctance to adopt HPV vaccination”, despite its proven ability to prevent various cancers in both men and women.

Additionally, the region is seeing a surge in uterine and endometrial cancers, driven largely by an aging population and a growing obesity epidemic.

To combat these trends, Dr Diaz is advocating for the adoption of advanced technologies like robotic surgery, which allows for complex procedures through minimal incisions.

“Robotic surgery allows women to get the care they need, many times go home the very same day and get back to their regular lives in a couple of weeks as opposed to a couple of months”, he said.

By fostering partnerships between international centres and local oncologists, Dr Diaz believes the Caribbean can bridge the gap in healthcare equity and ensure women throughout the region have access to the latest life-saving innovations.