Dr. Ford says tests and screenings will become more accessible and affordable for Saint Lucians, as part of Universal Health Coverage. The Ministry of Health reports that 82% of all deaths in Sains Lucia result from NCDs like cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases.

“We want to encourage the men. I think a lot has to happen with us educating them about what is happening. Prostate cancer is killing our men and I think it is very important that we give them data so that they know this is what it is doing to them in Saint Lucia,” Dr. Ford said.

Results from 2020 reveal that Saint Lucia recorded 135 new cases of prostate cancer that year. Prostate cancer would account for 30% of all cancers for that year and 50% of cancer diagnoses in males.

Dr. Ford says the Ministry is exploring methods of getting men more active in the monitoring of their prostate health. “We may have to look at ways to get them more involved - probably get testimonials from persons who are affected by the disease itself,” she said. 

The UHC Director says men will be receiving specialised clinic times to make them feel more comfortable.

“We’re also looking into - and discussions have started - where we’re looking to give men their own times in the clinics. For example, we know for cervical screening, a woman can decide they’ll go on ‘x’ date at the wellness centre. For the men, we have to put a particular day so they can go at a particular time. We need to give men that kind of leeway. UHC is a lot about accessibility, affordability, and quality. We need to give men all these.”

UHC will continue along a phased approach in 2024, she says.