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US‑Based Guyanese doctor urges resolute focus on preventive care and cancer screening
(Kaieteur News) – As chronic diseases and cancer rates continue to rise across the country, a U.S.-based Guyanese physician is urging for there to be persistent emphasis on prevention, early detection, and accessible health education.
Dr. Karen Cooper, who has spent years volunteering in underserved communities here, through the long‑standing Health Education and Relief Organization (H.E.R.O.), says Guyana is at a pivotal moment in its public health journey.
During her most recent visit, Dr. Cooper highlighted the five leading cancers affecting Guyanese families — breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, and lung — and stressed that early screening remains one of the most effective tools for saving lives.
“Cancer is often detected too late, when treatment options are limited,” she told Kaieteur News. “Screening gives families a fighting chance. It allows us to identify the disease early, intervene early, and prevent avoidable loss.”
Dr. Karen Cooper
Health officials have long noted that many of the cancers most common in Guyana are highly treatable when caught in their early stages. Dr. Cooper is encouraging adults, particularly those with family histories or other risk factors, to view routine screening as a normal part of preventive care rather than something triggered by symptoms.
Beyond her cancer prevention advocacy, Dr. Cooper has consistently championed practical, community centered approaches to healthier living. Through H.E.R.O., her volunteer work includes supporting early screening and management of chronic diseases, offering preventive care education, and promoting simple, accessible forms of physical activity and nutrition.
“Preventive care is not just about avoiding illness — it’s about building healthier communities,” she said. “When people understand their risks and have access to screening and supportive environments, we can reduce the burden of chronic disease across the country.”
“The Government of Guyana, by way of the Health Ministry’s Chronic Disease Unit, must continue to spread the message, as I know it has been doing, to decrease the effect of chronic diseases. The professionals are well aware of the importance of early testing. Diabetes and hypertension can be dealt with even more effectively. Guyanese clearly have access to vital lab tests, and must use those and other such facilities, like dialysis services, to their benefit.”
“It is encouraging to see the increase in regional hospitals, and the collaborations with reputable NGOs and international institutions. That is why I believe that the messaging must be unceasing.”
Dr. Cooper says that it’s concerning that the fear factor seems to be keeping persons from visiting physicians and medical facilities for necessary check-ups.
“From what I’ve noticed, there’s a lot of apprehension about going to the doctor or specialist to get checked. Having state-of-the-art equipment and highly efficient professionals would mean nothing if there’s reluctance to find out if something may be wrong. It’s important for individuals to be diagnosed, advised and treated as early as possible. A lot of people only become aware when it’s too late, and unfortunately beyond being treatable.”
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