Some of the region’s leading voices in oncology and health care will gather in Antigua this weekend for the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre’s (SLBMC) Multi-Disciplinary Cancer Symposium, a high-level meeting designed to confront one of the Caribbean’s most pressing health challenges.

Set for Saturday at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa, the symposium will unite specialists from across disciplines—oncology, urology, gynecology, pediatrics, radiology, surgery, nutrition, and nursing—with the shared mission of advancing cancer prevention, treatment, and patient support in the Caribbean.

SLBMC Marketing and Communications Manager, Salma Crump, said the event is about more than academic discussion. “We are building a collaborative platform where knowledge, innovation, and compassion intersect—so we can make cancer care more effective, more accessible, and more equitable for our people.”

International Expertise, Caribbean Solutions
The program features groundbreaking presentations:
•⁠ ⁠Dr. Anesa Ahamad, Radiation Oncologist – “Breast Cancer Advances: Safer, More Accessible, More Precise Treatment in Our Region” – showcasing breakthroughs that bring hope to Caribbean families.
•⁠ ⁠Dr. Jonathan Makanjuola, Consultant Urologist – “The Use of Prostate Cancer AI in the Caribbean” – highlighting how artificial intelligence is reshaping prostate cancer decision-making and care delivery.
•⁠ ⁠Dr. Hanybal Yazigi, SLBMC Oncologist – “Breaking the News, Building the Bond” – examining compassionate communication strategies in oncology.

•⁠ ⁠Dr. Cherie Tulloch, Gynecologist and Chair of the Cervical Cancer Elimination Program – “Closing the Gap: Advancing Cervical Screening Equity” – focusing on eliminating barriers to life-saving screening.
•⁠ ⁠Dr. Michelle Reece-Mills, Pediatric Oncologist/Hematologist – “The Highs and Lows of Pediatric Cancer Care” – spotlighting the struggles and successes in treating childhood cancers.
•⁠ ⁠Samantha Moitt, RDN, MPH, Chief Nutrition Officer – “The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Prevention” – underscoring how healthy lifestyles can cut risks and improve long-term health outcomes.

Why It Matters
Cancer remains a leading cause of death in the Caribbean, with late diagnoses, treatment gaps, and inequities in access to care posing ongoing challenges. By creating a space for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, SLBMC hopes this symposium will strengthen local health systems and equip regional teams with practical solutions.

“This is about saving lives,” Crump said. “The symposium is not just about theory—it’s about building capacity, forging partnerships, and ensuring that the Caribbean is not left behind in the global fight against cancer.”