Barbados faces a critical challenge in the early detection of colorectal cancer, with only 25% of cases identified through screening, according to Dr. Lalitha Sripathi, an oncologist and head of the Oncology Department at Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Speaking at the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners’ (BAMP) annual conference, Dr. Sripathi revealed that despite accessible testing services, public participation remains alarmingly low. The majority of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, significantly reducing treatment efficacy. Colorectal cancer is one of the island’s top three most prevalent cancers, alongside prostate and breast cancer, collectively accounting for a quarter of all deaths in Barbados. Over the past decade, the nation has witnessed a steady rise in cancer incidence, with the Barbados National Cancer Registry reporting over 1,100 new cases and 700 cancer-related deaths in 2022 alone. Dr. Sripathi attributed the low screening rates partly to the stigma surrounding colonoscopies, which are perceived as invasive. To combat this, she advocated for greater promotion of the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), a non-invasive, cost-effective alternative that can be conducted at home. She stressed the importance of linking screening to timely follow-up care, emphasizing that early detection must be paired with prompt treatment to improve outcomes. Dr. Sripathi also called for the establishment of standardized, nationwide screening pathways to enhance colorectal cancer management and save lives.