HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC – The Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre (BCHC) has welcomed the publication of the island’s first national plan to combat cancer through prevention, early detection, and treatment, describing it as a “significant advancement in Bermuda’s healthcare landscape.”
“The Bermuda National Cancer Control Plan calls upon healthcare providers, government officials, NGOs, insurers, cancer survivors, and the Bermudian populace to rally together in the battle against cancer.
“Embracing this plan propels Bermuda towards a brighter future, characterized by enhanced quality of life and a reduction in the toll taken by cancer,” said a BCHC spokeswoman.
Cancer accounts for about one-third of all deaths on the island, and BCHC medical director and clinical oncologist Dr. Chris Fosker welcomed the National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) for 2024-30.
“In Bermuda, the prevalence of lung, prostate, colorectal, and breast cancers as leading causes of mortality underscore the need for a strategic and unified approach to combat this disease,“ he said.
“The NCCP aims to harness the potential to prevent up to one-third of cancer and cure another third through early detection and treatment.”
The plan was initiated in 2020. It suggests a holistic approach, emphasizing prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship, and palliative care while advocating for collaboration across various sectors, including governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and healthcare professionals.
Supported by the Ministry of Health, the NCCP aligns with the Bermuda Health Strategy 2022-2027 vision of fostering “healthy people in healthy communities” and promoting equitable access to health services.
The charity said the plan also aligns with global health objectives and has received accolades and support from prominent international health organizations.
“The initial phase of the NCCP, released in April 2022, laid the groundwork by mapping out Bermuda’s cancer burden. Today, we move forward with actionable goals, objectives, and strategies aimed at lessening the impact of cancer,” said Dr. Fosker, adding, “This work marks a transformative shift from identifying challenges to actively pursuing change, showcasing our dedication to revolutionizing cancer care in Bermuda.”
The plan has been partly financed by the Chronic Disease Innovation Programme, overseen by the Bermuda Health Council.
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