“Cancer”, this two-syllable word has the power to instill fear, disrupt lives and upset the most established plans; affecting not only individuals, but whole families regardless of social status or origins.
In Haitian women, breast and cervical cancers are the most common, accounting for around 75% of cases, and according to the incidence of cervical cancer is between 20.3 and 50.02 cases per 100,000 people.
Denise J. was living in the Dominican Republic when her world was turned upside down. A routine check-up revealed a devastating diagnosis: cervical cancer. As her health deteriorated, Denise struggled with the physical and emotional burden of her illness. Unable to afford the rising costs of treatment, she faced the terrifying prospect of succumbing to her illness, leaving behind her three children.
While in distress, hope emerged in the form of a friend’s recommendation: the University Hospital of Mirebalais (HUM).
Determined to fight for her life, Denise made the courageous decision to seek care at HUM, where she began a journey of healing. For the past eight months, Denise has been an active participant in HUM’s oncology program, undergoing rigorous chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
The fourth most common cancer in women, cervical cancer develops in a woman’s cervix. 99% of cases of this cancer are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Cervical cancer is largely preventable through primary prevention approaches such as HPV vaccination, and screening and treatment of precancerous lesions.
Early detection and effective management can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment of cervical cancer, which is one of the most treatable forms of cancer if detected early enough and managed effectively. Even cancers diagnosed at an advanced stage can be managed with appropriate treatment and palliative care.
Now living in Lascahobas, Denise travels to HUM for her treatments every 21 days. In the corridors of the Roselène Jean Bosquet Oncology Center, she found more than just a medical treatment facility; she found a community of caregivers, like Miss Guerdie Duvet, head nurse of the oncology department, and her team, committed to providing comprehensive care and support. From cancer screening to counseling and psychosocial support, HUM offers a holistic approach to oncology care that enables patients like Denise to regain their strength and vitality.
Despite the challenges they face, Denise and so many others find comfort in knowing they have a dedicated team of caregivers working tirelessly to provide the best possible care. Although the road to recovery is, Denise’s journey is a testament to the spirit of hope and resilience that shines within the walls of HUM, “I would not be alive today without this hospital,” she confides, with emotion.
Did you know?
- Zanmi Lasante is the only institution of its kind in Haiti to offer free cancer care.
- In 2018, we inaugurated the Centre Rosèlene J Bosquet offering a full range of services, including palliative care and psychosocial support for cancer patients.
- In 2023, ZL-supported facilities treated 82,027 emergency cases, of which 17,933 were cared for at Hôpital Sainte-Thérèse in Hinche and 13,941 at Hôpital Saint-Nicolas in Saint-Marc.
- ZL provided over a million outpatient consultations in 2023, offering crucial access to primary healthcare for the Haitian population.
