Thirteen new BREAST CANCER patients for TCI in 2021; over 2% are males

#TurksandCaicos, October 8, 2021 – The National Cancer Society needs our support and they need it now.  For two consecutive years, due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the major fundraising events held to support its work have had to be cancelled due to mass gathering restrictions and other public health precautions.

“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Cancer Society had to cancel our usual fundraising events from last year up to now. As a Non-Profit Organization, we are totally dependent on funding from our various scheduled events throughout the year and rely on the goodwill and generosity of private corporations, businesses, financially abled persons and the general public to keep us afloat,” said Veronica Rigby, President of the National Cancer Society in her Breast Cancer Awareness Month message.

The NCS, during this 2021 Breast Cancer Awareness month is appealing to residents for a monetary donation to keep their mission on track.

“With patients’ numbers going up each year we are truly grateful for the support we get. We hope that those who are able to help, can donate to the NCS so that we can continue to assist persons who need us most. Thank you to ALL who continuously support us and our mission.”

President Veronica Rigby reminded that one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime; men can also develop breast cancer, although this is rare but not for these islands.

“Currently in the TCI, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer.  Statistics show that from January to December 2020, the total number of registered breast cancer cases in the country was 127.  Total deaths recorded in 2020 were two.”

Statistics also show that from January to September 2021 the total number of registered breast cancer cases rose to 140 patients, an increase of 13 cases.”

The National Cancer Society President explained, this number includes “male and female; there are 137 female patients and 3 male patients.”

“We know that hearing the words “you have cancer” can be terrifying and frightening. Just know that you can reach out to us and along with your family, we will offer you the support and inspiration you will need to help you get through your cancer journey.

For 17 years, the NCS has been assisting cancer patients, their families and our survivors with financial, spiritual, practical, physical and emotional support through our free cancer services. We support individuals with breast cancer and every other type of cancer, from diagnosis to survivorship.”

So far this year, one breast cancer patient has died.

“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is a worldwide annual campaign to increase awareness and to promote regular screening and early detection of breast cancer. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams and scheduling regular breast mammograms.

The National Cancer Society theme for this years’ Breast Cancer Awareness Month is “Your Fight Is Our Fight.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands National Cancer Society is a non-profit organization.