The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
A new provincial program aims to ensure more aboriginal people with cancer are diagnosed and treated earlier. The First Nations, M_tis and Inuit Cancer Control Program, operated by CancerCare Manitoba, is the latest phase of the Manitoba government's cancer-fighting strategy. The new program recognizes broad cultural factors and the role of traditional and holistic healing practices. It sees a patient access coordinator work with patients, families and health-care providers to connect people to care and support services. 'Culturally responsive services represent the next natural step in the ongoing evolution of cancer services in Manitoba,' said Dr. Dhali Dhaliwal, president and CEO of CancerCare Manitoba. 'By helping more Manitobans navigate the health-care system through the First Nations, M_tis and Inuit Cancer Control Program, we can ensure those who might otherwise face barriers to cancer services can access the care and treatment they need.' Share info In addition to helping those who have been diagnosed with cancer access treatment and support, staff also travel to First Nations and M_tis gatherings around the province to share information about prevention, early warning signs and symptoms. The goal of this: help more First Nations, M_tis and Inuit Manitobans get screened to catch cancer earlier when it is easier to treat. The program will also reach out to new Canadians and other populations who face challenges in accessing cancer services due to factors such as language, geography or lack of knowledge about cancer screening, prevention and care options. 'This program gives community members a better understanding of what will happen during testing and cancer treatments, which eases some of the fear and powerlessness family members feel when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer,' said Ann Lacquette, a member of the CancerCare Manitoba Community Partnership Committee. Health Minister Theresa Oswald said the new program builds on existing investments in cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment. 'Now, even more Manitobans have increased access to screening, fast referrals, testing, diagnosis and treatment,' she said. 'Patients and their families deserve no less.' Every year, more than 6,000 Manitobans are diagnosed with cancer, while up to 10 times that number are suspected of having cancer and undergo testing before it is ruled out.Ê Like most other jurisdictions, Manitoba is projecting a 50 per cent increase in cancer cases over the next 20 years. _ Compiled from a Government of Manitoba news release
