City joins cancer walk

Scores of Port Moresby residents joined the Globeathon to End Women’s Cancer walk last Sunday from the Pacific International Hospital (PIH) to raise awareness of cancers in women.
Globeathon to End Women’s Cancers is a worldwide movement, bringing together physicians, patients, caregivers, organisations and people to raise awareness and increase early detection and prevention of gynaecologic cancers.
These cancers impact women worldwide, accounting for 19 per cent of the 5.1 million estimated new cancer cases each year, according to the World Health Organisation International Agency for Research on Cancer.
PIH director Dr Amyna Sultan said: “By joining the Globeathon movement, we are empowering women with the knowledge to help prevent and detect gynaecologic cancers early when they are more treatable.
“These cancers are often difficult to diagnose as most women don’t recognise the symptoms.
“As more women learn and speak about gynaecologic cancers with their friends, loved ones and doctors, we are creating a surround-sound of awareness that could ultimately save a generation of women.”
PIH chief executive officer Col Sandeep Shaligram said cancer detection at late stages was often difficult to treat, with slimmer chances of survival, and also became a financial burden for families.
Port Moresby is joining more than 200 communities in more than 80 countries next month to celebrate the second annual Globeathon with local awareness events from walks to dance performances, rowing competitions and educational seminars.
Guests at the walk included Lynda Babao-O’Neill,  director of Public Health Services NCD Dr Lutty Amos and PNG Defence Force chief of personnel Col John Raqatani.
The event also featured a flash mob dance by volunteers.
Fifa mascot Susa also made an appearance and was a big hit with the children.
The walk was well-organised with support from police, with adequate water stations at regular intervals and volunteers guiding the crowd.
Participation was significantly higher than last year and will hopefully lead to more women getting themselves screened for cancers early.