Cancer needs comprehensive approach

Director of Medical Services at Port Moresby General Hospital, Dr Kone Sobi, says cancer treatment in Papua New Guinea needs a comprehensive approach, covering both hospital care and public health awareness.

Dr Sobi told NBC News this must include prevention and screening strategies to improve patient outcomes.

He said most patients present to hospital at quite advanced stages of cancer due to lack of awareness or information.

"Maybe they don't know that it's a cancer, evolving cancer disease process. So by the time they come to the hospital and diagnosis are made, say for instance, breast cancer, cervical cancer, mouth cancer, these diseases are quite advanced stages. And some of them can be very subtle," Dr Sobi said.

He believes having robust screening services within communities would help patients know the status of their cancer at an early stage.

Dr Sobi said early detection of common cancers like cervical cancer will ensure better outcomes with treatment.

He added that common cancers in the country include oral and mouth cancers, which are quite common, followed by breast cancer in women.

In children, he said common cancers include leukemia, a bloodstream cancer.

Dr Sobi said while some cancers are very challenging to treat, early diagnosis and treatment will see better outcomes for patients.