The Cayman Islands Government has published its first National Cancer Policy to set consistent standards for cancer screening and care.
The policy covers cancer prevention, screening, early detection, diagnosis and ongoing care, with a focus on making screening recommendations consistent across the islands.
It sets out when people should be screened, how often screening should take place and which tests should be used for colorectal, cervical and female breast cancer.
These are currently the only three cancers for which effective population screening approaches have been evidenced.
For colorectal cancer, adults aged 45 to 74 are recommended to have a FIT test, also known as a faecal immunochemical test, every two years or a colonoscopy every 10 years.
Women aged 24½ to 64 are recommended to have HPV testing every five years for cervical cancer, with cytology triage where indicated. Catch-up HPV vaccination is offered at the first appointment where required.
For female breast cancer, women aged 40 to 74 are recommended to have mammography every two years. Radiology may recommend additional screening where breast density requires further assessment.
The policy uses United Kingdom National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Quality Standards and Guidelines as a foundation for standardising clinical pathways and providing healthcare professionals with evidence-based guidance across the cancer care pathway.
Health minister Katherine Ebanks-Wilks said the policy will provide a framework for prevention and early detection.
“The publication of the Cayman Islands’ very first national Cancer Policy marks a historic milestone in our commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our people,” she said.
“This groundbreaking policy establishes a robust, evidence-based framework aimed to strengthen cancer prevention, screening and early detection, with an initial focus on bowel, cervical and female breast cancer.”
She said it is crucial to recognise that cancer affects individuals, families and communities across the islands.
“Therefore, strong governance and collaboration, along with a steadfast focus on prevention, must remain at the forefront of our efforts,” the health minister said.
“This policy reflects our commitment to building a proactive, patient-centred healthcare system that improves outcomes through prevention.”
Ebanks-Wilks also said the government is advancing work on a Cancer Registry Bill.
A white paper will first be shared with the public to outline the proposed approach and gather feedback from cancer patients and their families, healthcare practitioners and other stakeholders.
Chief medical officer Hilary Wolf said the timing of cancer detection can affect treatment and survival.
“The earlier cancer is identified, the greater the opportunity for effective treatment and improved survival,” she said.
“This policy provides a standardised guideline by aligning our approach with internationally recognised, evidence-based practices and ensuring that screening recommendations are applied consistently across the Cayman Islands.
“It also reinforces the importance of prevention, timely diagnosis and coordinated care, while giving healthcare professionals and the public greater clarity and confidence in the pathways designed to achieve the best possible health outcomes.”
Chief officer Tamara Ebanks said: “I thank everyone who contributed to the development of this important policy and look forward to continuing this work with our partners and the wider community as we strengthen cancer care, improve outcomes and build a healthier, stronger and more resilient Cayman Islands.”
People within the recommended screening age groups are encouraged to discuss their eligibility and screening options with their GP, who can direct them to the appropriate service.
Cervical cancer screening can also be provided by a women’s health provider or GP.
Other cancers remain under consideration for future population screening recommendations.
The policy will be monitored and reviewed as evidence, clinical practice and international standards evolve.
