‘Women are the backbone of our families and our communities but if we are not well, the whole family suffers.’
These were the words of Her Excellency Lady Emeline Tufi Dadae, the wife of the Governor General of Papua New Guinea, Sir Bob Dadae, who spoke at the recent PNG Cancer Foundation’s Inaugural Susa Lounge: Connect 4 Cause, which took place on the Saturday evening of the 29th of March 2025 at the Royal Papua Yacht club in Port Moresby.
With the theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ this event was a networking event which focused on women’s health as well as the importance of cancer prevention, early detection and research.
Her Excellency stressed that the one of the biggest health threats to women in PNG is cancer, especially cervical and breast cancer.
“These are diseases that can touch anyone in this room. I’m sure you all know of someone; a family member, friend or colleague who has cancer or has unfortunately passed away from this disease. Cancer does not discriminate.”
Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women in PNG. According to the PNG Cancer Foundation, more than 1, 500 women lose their lives to this disease each year.
Breast cancer is also on the rise. More women are being diagnosed every year, but many only find out when it’s already too late. The truth is many of these cancer deaths can be prevented.
Her Excellency stated that there are various factors that hinder women from getting medical attention including fear, where women are afraid to find out about their condition. Secondly, they don’t know where to go or who to talk to, for fear of discrimination.
And thirdly, they simply don’t think it’s important and they wait until they are sick to seek medical attention by which time it is already too late.
With these factors, Lady Dadae outlined the cruciality of going for checkups, stating the most obvious which is ‘Early detention can save lives.’
“We don’t have to wait for things to get worse! We can stem the tide of cancer and make a difference.”
In addition, she also encouraged all women over 21 years of age to get tested and to see a health worker immediately, whether it be for cervical cancer or if one notices any changes or feel lump in their breast.
“Talk about it! Cancer is not a curse; it is not a result of sorcery or traditional witchcraft; it is a disease, and it can be treated if found early. We need to speak openly about it. The more we talk, the more we learn.”
“Also, support each other. If you know a woman who is afraid to go for a check-up, encourage her. If you are a husband, brother, or father, support women in your life to get screened.”
Meanwhile, Lady Dadae also acknowledged the men who were also present during the event stating that as a husband, brother, or father, they have played a critical role in the lives, health and wellbeing of the women society.
“Your support and care are essential to us, and pivotal also in turning the tide of cancer. We are in this together.”
“The key to saving lives is, ACTION. If we act now, we can make a difference. We can save lives. Let’s spread the message and encourage our sisters, mothers and daughters to get checked.”
Furthermore, Her Excellency encouraged all women and girls to make their health their priority and urged them to start investing in their personal health as the first step in the fight against women’s cancers.
“Let’s be self-aware and proactive. Make it your business to learn as much as you can about the risks of cancer, its effects and symptoms and act on these advise and warnings.”
“When we take care of our health, we are better able to take care of our family, build strong families and communities, and a stronger Papua New Guinea now and into the future.”