For the past 16 years, cancer has been the leading cause of death in Saint Lucia, taking about one in five lives.
In response, health officials have launched the National Cancer Registry to help track cases more accurately, improve monitoring and support evidence-based strategies to fight the disease.
The registry builds on earlier work by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition to offer free local screenings, encourage healthy lifestyles, and promote early detection.
Officials say this new system is the missing piece, providing the data needed to guide policy, improve programmes and direct resources where they are most needed.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Michelle Francois, national epidemiologist, underscored the importance of reliable cancer surveillance.
“Every cancer case reported contributes to a clearer understanding of the burden of cancer, strengthens our ability to plan effective prevention and control strategies and provides the evidence needed to improve patient care and health outcomes across our island,” she said.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Sharon Belmar‑George reinforced the urgency, saying: “Malignant neoplasms have been the number one cause of mortality for the past 16 years. Not a statistic that we should accept lightly. Without accurate, comprehensive and timely data we’re really fighting this battle blindfolded.”
CARPHA’s Chatoyer Bobb framed the registry as a promise to Saint Lucians that every diagnosis will count. “Every case will teach you something and every data set will inform a better decision. Every decision will bring you closer to saving lives,” Bobb said.
Health Minister Moses Jn Baptiste called the registry a foundation for stronger policy.
“We need to focus on trends, strengthen prevention and screening, improve patient care, support research, and ensure that our resources are directed where they are needed most,” he said.
This initiative was established through collaboration among the Ministry of Health and key regional and international partners, including the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the Caribbean Cancer Registry Hub, and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).
