New Screening Equipment at J. N. F. Hospital Set to Reduce Colon Cancer Surgeries

Residents of St. Kitts and Nevis over the age of 45, as well as those with a family history of cancer, are being urged to undergo screening for colon cancer, following the installation of new medical equipment at the Joseph N. France (J. N. F.) General Hospital.

Dr. Mark Grant, Consultant General Surgeon at J.N.F., made the recommendation during a media appearance this week. He highlighted the recent addition of two colonoscopes and two gastroscopes at the hospital, which will significantly improve the ability to diagnose and treat colon cancer in its early stages.

“We want individuals who have reached the age of 45 to say, ‘I need to have a colonoscopy,’” Dr. Grant stated. “It shouldn’t be because you’ve noticed a change in bowel movements or an infection, but simply because you’re 45 and recognise that screening now could protect you for the next 10 years.”

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer globally and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The new equipment, donated by the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board, will allow medical professionals to detect and treat early signs of cancer before it becomes life-threatening.

“We prefer people to have colonoscopies at the earliest opportunity to detect any growths before they turn cancerous,” Dr. Grant explained. “With a colonoscope or gastroscope, we can remove these growths early, preventing them from spreading throughout the body. However, if allowed to progress to malignancy, it could require major surgery, and the outcomes can be far less favourable.”

The availability of two colonoscopes and two gastroscopes will ensure that one machine is always in use while the other undergoes proper cleaning and maintenance, further enhancing the efficiency of screenings at the J.N.F. Hospital.

The new equipment is expected to play a crucial role in reducing the number of major surgeries needed to treat colon cancer, offering a proactive approach to the health and well-being of the nation’s residents.