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FSM Observes World Cancer Day

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): February 11, 2010 - President Manny Mori declared February 4, 2010, as World Cancer Day to be celebrated in the FSM. A brief ceremony to commemorate the day was held at the Central Facilities Conference Room in Palikir, Pohnpei, and was attended by more than 85 FSM National Government employees, officials and the public. The ceremony featured an introduction by the National Comprehensive Cancer Coalition Program (NCCCP) Coordinator, Mr. Amato Elymore, and opening remarks were delivered by the Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Social Affairs, Mr. Ben Jesse and the Chairman of the National Cancer Coalition, Mr. Wilson Waguk.

The theme of this year's World Cancer Day was "Working Together against Cancer". At the ceremony, the NCCCP Coordinator made an educational presentation about cancer followed by a "Question and Answer session" which provided the participants an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about cancer.

The Comprehensive Cancer Coalitions in the other FSM States had similar celebrations which recognized and observed the importance of the day. In Pohnpei, the Comprehensive Cancer Coalition had a parade with students from Ohmine Elementary School walking on the roads in Kolonia to raise awareness of cancer as the world's leading cause of death. In Kosrae, they reported that their weeklong activities culminated in their Governor's signing off on their constitutional documents for their coalition. Now, the Kosrae Comprehensive Cancer Coalition is a fully recognized non-governmental organization.

The FSM NCCCP Coordinator would like to thank everyone that was involved with the activities and looks forward to more public awareness of cancer and how it can be prevented.