Cancer Society Sees Surge in Applications
The BVI Cancer Society reports an unexpected spike in requests for assistance, receiving 15 new applications in two weeks compared with an average of about three per month. President Gloria Fahie says the organisation has processed roughly 10 cases while others await required medical documentation, and she called for expanded local oncology services and national planning on cancer care.
The BVI Cancer Society has raised alarm after receiving 15 new applications for cancer-related assistance in a two-week period — a sharp increase from the roughly three applications it would typically see in an entire month. President Gloria Fahie told BVI Live the trend is troubling.
The Society has already processed about 10 of the new applications, but several remain pending because applicants have not submitted full documentation such as official diagnoses and outstanding medical bills. Fahie reminded would-be applicants that the organisation cannot process requests without the paperwork specified on its form.
Fahie, who is not a medical professional, said she is concerned about possible contributing factors behind what appears to be a rise in cancer cases in the territory. One particular worry is the handling of imported bottled water, which she said is often left in heat during shipping and storage. 'One thing that we have in common is the water that is being imported here in the BVI,' she said, adding that she has personally seen bottles left out in the sun for long periods.
While Fahie emphasised the need for medical investigation before drawing firm conclusions, she welcomed recent improvements to local cancer care. The addition of a resident oncologist at the Bougainvillea Clinic, she said, is a positive development and may encourage more people to seek direct treatment within the territory.
At the same time, Fahie noted oncology services remain limited and urged longer-term planning, expanded specialist training and the inclusion of cancer care among government national health priorities. In support of affected residents, the BVI Cancer Society continues to promote early screening and patient assistance.
For World Cancer Day on February 4 the Society partnered with Penn Medical Clinic to cover laboratory work, medical supplies and doctor visits for those in need. Fahie said the Society remains committed to helping families through treatment and calls on residents to take advantage of screening services and to ensure they provide the full documentation required when applying for support.
She also urged policymakers and health professionals to investigate possible environmental or logistical factors affecting public health and to strengthen local capacity for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Primary source: BVI News