The Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners (BAMP) convened its annual conference this Saturday, focusing on the critical theme ‘A Holistic Approach to Cancer Care.’ The two-day event gathered prominent medical experts who underscored the alarming trend of Barbadians presenting with cancer at advanced stages. Consultant urologist Dr. Paul Rouse delivered a compelling presentation, revealing that Barbados continues to experience disproportionately high prostate cancer mortality rates. He emphasized that relying solely on symptoms is insufficient, stating, ‘Some patients have symptoms; some don’t. The absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of disease.’ Dr. Rouse advocated for Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) testing, noting that early detection significantly enhances treatment outcomes. ‘Detecting the disease at an asymptomatic stage is crucial. Implementing lifestyle changes, medical management, or surgical interventions can dramatically improve prognosis,’ he explained. While PSA testing is not flawless, advancements in diagnostic tools have significantly improved accuracy. Dr. Rouse also highlighted the availability of advanced urological care in Barbados, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad. Consultant gastroenterologist Dr. Avenello Maynard echoed the urgency of early detection, citing global and local statistics. ‘In 2022, over 1.9 million people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer, making it the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Barbados faces a high incidence and mortality rate, particularly among males,’ he said. Dr. Maynard stressed that early diagnosis is life-saving, as colorectal cancer typically develops over 10 to 20 years, allowing for less invasive treatment options. General surgeon Dr. Ian Lewis addressed breast cancer, the most common cancer among Barbadian women, emphasizing the importance of early detection. He discussed how digital mammography, combined with proper breast compression and skilled interpretation, has improved detection rates. ‘Screening is secondary prevention, aimed at identifying disease before symptoms appear,’ he stated. Dr. Lewis also highlighted the evolution of mammography technology and the importance of understanding breast density for accurate detection. He urged women to adhere to recommended screening schedules, noting that mammography remains the most effective tool for reducing breast cancer mortality. ‘The earlier we detect it, the better the outcome,’ he concluded.