Dr. Joseph Bernard Junior
The Cancer Clinic Saint Pérégrin recorded about 757 new cancer cases in one year in the South of Haiti, according to Dr Joseph Bernard Junior, invited this Thursday, August 13, 2026 on Magik 9. Breast cancer comes first, followed by gynaecological, digestive and prostate cancers. Almost 90% of patients, however, are at an advanced stage of the disease, revealing weaknesses in screening and access to specialized care.
According to Dr. Bernard, gynaecological cancers account for about 30% of cases in the South, compared to almost 20% in the West. Cervical cancer remains the main gynaecological cancer. In men, prostate cancer is among the most common, alongside colorectal and digestive cancers.
One of the main challenges remains the late diagnosis. Almost 90% of patients received at the clinic have advanced cancer, sometimes in stages 3 or 4. This situation reduces treatment possibilities, affects prognosis and may increase the risk of death.
The 757 cases recorded in the South are only part of the national problem. The expert recalls that international estimates indicate about 14,000 new cancer cases per year in Haiti. The limited number of oncology facilities prevents many patients from gaining rapid access to diagnosis and treatment.
In response to this situation, Dr. Bernard calls for enhanced prevention, early detection and vaccination against HPV, particularly to combat cervical cancer. He also stressed the need for better information to encourage rapid consultation and management before the disease reached an advanced stage.
W.A.
