05/08/2026
On Friday, 31 July, the Papua New Guinea Cancer Foundation Inc. took part in NBC's Let's Talk About It, hosted by Timothy Vanua on 90.7 FM, as part of Kensa Konvasesen, the Foundation's monthly cancer education and awareness radio programme.
The episode had been arranged around sarcoma, one of the least understood cancers in Papua New Guinea, with General Surgeon Dr Kaycii Amoko expected to join Executive Manager Kimberly Kapigeno in studio. Following Dr Amoko's unavailability on the day, the discussion turned instead to the Foundation's progress throughout 2026 in extending cancer education across the country.
Representing the Foundation were Manager, Core Functions, Asigau Onzem, and External Engagements Officer, Julie Justin Kauba. Onzem addressed the factors that continue to contribute to late-stage cancer diagnoses in Papua New Guinea, including limited health literacy, cultural beliefs shaped by ethnicity, ancestry and faith, the effects of stigma and social hesitation, and the practical barrier of geographical distance from healthcare services.
He outlined how the Foundation responds to these barriers through four purpose designed education programmes, TEEN, COPE, TEA and BATA, delivered under its Health Literacy Initiative and directed respectively at young people, communities, women and men. Each programme is intended to make cancer easier to discuss openly and easier to act on before it reaches an advanced stage.
Kauba spoke about the Foundation's plans to strengthen partnerships with the corporate sector in support of forthcoming campaigns, among them Kid Up Beat It Day in September, which will provide children undergoing cancer treatment with items such as beanies, soft duvets and companion toys intended to offer comfort during a difficult period.
The programme also acknowledged the partners whose continued support sustains this work, including Moore Printing, Ela Motors, ExxonMobil PNG, BSP Financial Group Limited, Westpac (PNG), Santos, SMEC PNG, Nambawan Trophy Limited, Air Niugini Limited, Paradise Foods Limited and Theodist, among others whose contribution allows the Foundation to reach communities throughout Papua New Guinea.
The burden of cancer in Papua New Guinea continues to grow faster than public understanding of it. Should a single broadcast prompt one listener in a remote community to recognise a symptom, ask a question or seek medical advice sooner, that conversation will have served its purpose.
We invite you to share what health topics you would like the Foundation to address in future episodes, and to follow this page for updates on upcoming awareness campaigns and outreach activities.
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