The appeal launched by the Défi Media Group, Radio Plus and Défi Santé has been heard. More than 200 people were screened for breast and prostate cancer during the health caravan which took place at the Plaisance Shopping Village in Rose-Belle on Wednesday February 8.
Build a bridge between health experts and Mauritians. This was the challenge of the health caravan held on Wednesday February 8 at the Plaisance Shopping Village. Organized by Le Défi Media Group, Radio Plus and Défi Santé, this day focused on cancer and visitors were able to carry out free screenings and consultations with the various partners of the event.
Of the 200 people who got tested, 124 were women. They were screened for breast cancer by palpation and breast ultrasound. In addition, the men, 79 in number, took a blood test to assess their PSA level to find out if they are at risk of prostate cancer.
“And among the 124 women screened, we had nine cases that deserved in-depth analyses. Four of them were recommended to see a doctor because there were small growths detected, while in five other women, they had to be sent directly to the hospital or clinic according to their choice. , because the lumps detected presented anomalies. But at this stage, we cannot say that these are cases of cancer. The diagnosis is not yet made. It was a first screening”, explained Selvina Moonesawmy, Program Coordinator at the Link to Life association.
On the side of Quality Healthcare Laboratories, 180 blood samples were taken for a complete health examination. “There was the Full Blood Count which gives an indication of his general state of health and for cancer, it is the level of white blood cells in the blood which can give an indication”, explained Navin Mohun.
This enthusiasm for tests is explained by the need to have information on cancer, which is becoming a real public health problem. “We had a lot of curious people who came to ask for information. This is a good signal, because Mauritians want to take their health into their own hands. And it is through awareness that we can fight cancer, because early detection is a key element,” said Dr. Mansi Kanderia, Lead Oncologist & Medical Director at Aegle Cancer Hospital. He was there during the day to advise and guide visitors.
Same observation on the stand of Chisty Shifa Clinic by Dr. Akthar Codabux. For the latter, people must become aware of the importance of screening to prevent complications and get the necessary treatments in time. “We have seen many patients who have family histories but who, unfortunately, do not know which examination to do for which type of cancer. The most alarming at the moment is prostate cancer which is growing. However, this subject remains taboo among older men,” he said.
Several other partners offered free tests, including eye exams by Linet by Patel Optics, and advice on overseas care by Overseas Medical Care Assistance. As far as pediatric cancer is concerned, it is the Enn Rev Enn Sourir association which has put forward its new “Childhood Cancer Care” programme.
Testimonials
At 71 years old and living in Plaine-Magnien, Sidney Casse-Pierre wanted to take advantage of the health caravan to do a prostate screening, despite his fear of needles. “I’ve come to understand that a regular check-up is what allows you to detect early if there’s something wrong. And with age, this fear of falling ill is very present. That’s why I didn’t hesitate,” he explained.
For Christiane Ally, 69, it was her fragile health that prompted her to come to the Plaisance Shopping Village in New-Grove. “I have some health complications and I am disabled. These screenings are important to me, because I don’t know what can happen to me. I have had many checkups in the past and several treatments as well. I take the lead to make sure I don’t have a breast lump,” she said.