An investigation into the awareness of cancer and it's social determinants in the Fiji Islands

INTRODUCTION: Cancer is a major public health concern worldwide, with increasing mortality rates, especially in low-middle income countries. The predicted global cancer burden by 2040 is expected to be over 27 million new cases per year, a nearly 50% increase compared to 2018. This research presents recent statistics on cancer incidence and mortality in Fiji from 2010 to 2018 and the barriers associated with early detection of cancer. METHODS: The study used a mixed-method model to determine cancer incidence and understand the factors associated with accessing breast cancer care in the Fiji Islands. Age-standardized incidence and mortality rates were calculated and semi-structured interviews were conducted with breast cancer patients, community women, a health care professional and a traditional healer. RESULTS: This study analysed cancer rates in Fiji from 2010 to 2018. Out of 12,433 reported cases, women had higher incidence rates (8,457 cases) compared to men (3,965 cases), but men had a higher death rate of nearly 59%. Breast, cervical, and endometrial cancer were the top three cancers among women, while prostate, liver, and lung cancer were the top three among men. Education, awareness, culture and distance were some of the factors identified as barriers to accessing cancer care services. CONCLUSIONS: The findings emphasize the need to understand lifestyle factors affecting cancer risk, especially among women and rural populations. It underscores the importance of prioritizing cancer epidemiology, prevention, and control at the national level and investing in improved cancer treatment delivery. These efforts can help address the challenges of cancer in Fiji and reduce its burden on individuals. KEY MESSAGES: • The analysis serves as a foundation for future research to understand the barrier to access cancer healthcare services. • This research aims to inform strategies for early detection of cancer and timely treatment for men and women in the Fiji Islands.