MHES supports local breast cancer and diabetes awareness initiative

The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES) is pleased to announce a sponsorship of CI$15,000 in support of Lions Club of Tropical Gardens’ efforts to raise awareness of breast cancer and diabetes.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed internationally each October, highlighting the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women and one of the leading non-communicable diseases (NCDs) burdens globally.

Highlighting the importance of national data in shaping health policy, the Minister for Health, Environment and Sustainability, Honourable Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, said: “The findings of the 2023 STEPS National Health Survey underscore the serious risks our country faces from non-communicable diseases such as cancer and diabetes. Increasing awareness through initiatives like those led by the Lions Club of Tropical Gardens is crucial in helping residents in the Cayman Islands recognise risks early. This collaboration not only represents a vital step toward reducing the long-term burden of disease in our islands but also exemplifies the power of partnership in public health. We are proud to support the Lions in their ongoing efforts and are committed to further initiatives that promote early detection and prevention of advanced diseases in the future.”

Conducted in 2023, the STEPS survey collected data on behavioural and biological factors that can increase the risk of NCDs such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. Risk factors specific to cancer included smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, obesity, and lack of exercise. Importantly, the survey also found that 20% of women in Cayman, aged 45-69, have never had a mammogram.

Chief Officer for MHES, Ms. Tamara Ebanks, added: “We know that Government cannot achieve lasting health improvements alone. By partnering with the Lions Club of Tropical Gardens, we are ensuring that vital messages and support around breast cancer and diabetes, reach people directly in their communities. This sponsorship represents a tangible step in turning the results of the STEPS survey into meaningful action.”

For the past 28 years, the Lions Club of Tropical Gardens has worked with the community and local organisations to make support and early detection more available to women living in the Cayman Islands. Last year, the organisation provided over 470 free mammogram vouchers to individuals who could not otherwise afford this critical screening.

President of Lions Club of Tropical Gardens, Mr. Norman Howell, added: “The Lions Club of Tropical Gardens is overwhelmingly grateful to the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability, for this enormous support to our Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative.  The LCTG remains committed to our pursuit against breast cancer and this substantial contribution will certainly elevate, enhance, and extend our reach in tackling this disease throughout the Cayman Islands.  The Breast Cancer Awareness Committee of the LCTG looks forward to the continued partnership with Minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks and her ministry, in all our public education ventures to ensure wellness and preservation of Cayman's future.” 

As part of this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month programme, the Lions Club of Tropical Gardens is hosting several activities, including the Brenda Tibbetts-Lund Walk Run in Cayman Brac and Grand Cayman, the George Town Awareness Meeting, and the Survivors’ Breakfast. These events not only honour survivors and their families but also provide practical opportunities for early detection, education and community support.

MHES also supports self-care as an important part of preventing and managing conditions like breast cancer and diabetes. Paying attention to changes in the body through regular self-checks such as breast self-exams, along with routine health screenings, can help with early detection of breast cancer and diabetes-related complications. Combined with healthy habits such as balanced eating, physical activity, and voiding tobacco, these simple practices give individuals the power to take charge of their health.

The Ministry would like to encourage members of the public to support the upcoming activities and learn more about taking steps to protect their health.

Click the link for more details on activities for Breast Cancer Awareness Month: https://bit.ly/42VeJT1