With the continuing rise in the number of cancer-related illnesses and deaths in Anguilla, affecting both men and women, there is a call for research to be undertaken to find out what may be contributing to the alarming incidence of the disease.
The call is coming from members of the island’s community as well as persons involved in healthcare delivery and protection. Breast cancer in women (which can also occur in men), prostate cancer and cancer of the uterus are the main forms of cancer being recorded in Anguilla.
Several years ago, former Chief Minister, Mr. Osbourne Fleming, had spoken about the possibility of working towards the setting up a clinical system, with the involvement of a St. Thomas specialist, to engage in cancer research (and treatment) in Anguilla. Unfortunately, that did not materialise and there is now a renewed call for research work to be carried out on the island. It is understood that the Anguilla Social Security Board has been approached to pursue the matter. When contacted for comment, the Director of Social Security, Mr. Timothy Hodge, confirmed that it was a matter under consideration with no definitive approach in mind.
In the meantime, there are a number of cancer awareness programmes, other activities and sponsorships being undertaken by the Anguilla Cancer Society and various businesses on the island. The latest activities took place several days ago. The first was on Friday, October 28, when the Cancer Society, with the involvement of various sponsors, undertook a breast cancer awareness walk from the grounds of the Scouts and Guides Ruthwill Auditorium through the Valley South area. President of the Society and Senior Health Educator with the Health Authority of Anguilla, Mrs. Jennifer Gumbs, told The Anguillian that the activity was well patronised by a large number of persons wearing pink shirts – the cancer awareness colour. “We had a lot of persons in attendance and even some young people as well – and it was really good to see the men,” she stated. “I really want to thank the public for supporting us.”
The second activity, over the past days, was a concert held at the Orealia Kelly Primary School on Saturday night, October 29. It was jointly sponsored by the Anguilla National Creative Arts Association and the Anguilla Cancer Society. The concert was moderated by Mrs. Anita Martin-Ruan, an educator, community worker and noted performer.
Mrs. Gumbs, the President of the Cancer Society, told The Anguillian that there was much concern about the disease on the island and there were calls for research work. “Social Security wants to come on board with us, and we are looking to see in which area to do that research. We are asking the same question to the Ministry about the cancer cases and the need for research. The public is asking the same question – what is really happening to Anguilla in terms of the number of cases? Even in the month of October we have had some new cases both affecting women and men. This something we need to look into as a small community.”
She continued: “We need some kind of research to be done. The public is asking questions in terms of the environment. We know that diet and exercise play a big role in terms of cancer awareness; but the public is asking for some kind of investigation in relation to all these antennas that we are seeing. So we are asking questions if this can be done because this is the concern of the public – and we just cannot close the matter without some form of research.”
Ms. Bernice Richardson, spoke on behalf of the Anguilla National Creative Arts Association – as Public Relations Officer. “We are sponsoring the fund-raising concert because cancer is a disease affecting many of us, and those who are not affected need to support those who are in need. It is an expensive treatment and lots of people are succumbing to this disease. They need help because of the expense so we have joined forces with the Anguilla Cancer Society.”
As to the possible causes of high incidence of cancer, she said: “We are not sure. There is talk about the diet, there is talk about radiation. I think if there is some research or diagnosis you might see some relationship with what people are eating, for example.”
In chairing the concert, Mrs. Martin-Ruan stated in part: “Tonight is our first attempt to raise funds to assist persons who are affected by cancer or any other serious illness. Cancer, or other serious illness, can strike anyone and everyone, no matter what your lifestyle, family history, genetic makeup, religious beliefs, aspirations or wealth. The Anguilla National Creative Arts Association and the Anguilla Cancer Society recognise how expensive cancer care is. Those of us who are affected know that it costs a good penny especially because you have to travel overseas.”
Those who participated in the concert were: Khalidah Hull, Evan Webster, Kyleah Baird, Kerrainne Gumbs-Hayles, Howard Ebanks, Oralyn Reid, Mary Hughes, Kaiheem Richardson, Alma Franklyn, the Richardson and Fleming quartet singers, Anita Martin-Ruan, John Martin & Sons; and Gershwin Lake & Parables. There was a final rendition of “Make Us One” sung by all at the concert.
The Anguilla National Creative Arts Association and the Anguilla Cancer Society are grateful to the following: the musicians Perry Hughes, Lucian (Tony) Fleming and Vere; Everton Hull (sound master); the principal and staff of the Orealia Kelly Primary School; the media houses; Shawn Richards (for the poster and tickets) and members of the Anguilla public for their support.
