Fighting Cancer Together: A Nurse’s Perspective with Dr Candice Bowers
Dr Candice Bowers, an alumna of Nelson Mandela University (NMU), holds the following qualifications: B Cur, M Cur (Critical Care Nursing Science), Diploma in Nursing Education and Doctor of Nursing. She is a nursing expert with extensive experience in General Nursing Science and Critical Care Nursing and is passionate about advancing nursing practice through education, research, and patient advocacy.
Why is World Cancer Day important from a nurse’s perspective?
World Cancer Day recognises the vital role nurses play across the cancer care continuum. This includes cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship, and palliative care. Nurses are central to supporting patients and families at every stage of the cancer journey.
What misconceptions about cancer do you often encounter?
A common misconception is that a cancer diagnosis means there is no hope. Depending on the type and stage of the disease, treatment options are often available, particularly when cancer is detected early.
How can nurses contribute to cancer awareness and early detection in the community?
Nurses contribute by providing health education on cancer risk factors, helping communities recognise warning signs such as sudden and unexplained weight loss, and promoting participation in cancer screening programmes.
What preventive measures do you wish more people took seriously?
Routine screening and preventive health checks should be prioritised, including self-examinations, Pap smears, PSA blood tests, gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and mammograms etc. Cancer risks can also be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices such as avoiding tobacco, reducing processed foods, using sun protection, and staying physically active.
If there’s one message you’d like the audience to take away on World Cancer Day, what would it be?
World Cancer Day reminds us that behind every diagnosis is a person, a family, and a community. As a nursing alumna, I honour those we have lost, stand in solidarity with those living with cancer, and acknowledge survivors. Through nursing education, research, and practice, we continue to advance compassionate, evidence-based care.
How can future healthcare professionals make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer?
Future healthcare professionals can make a meaningful impact by staying up to date with developments in cancer care and ensuring their practice is guided by current evidence. Strengthening and expanding nursing research is essential to improving patient outcomes and advancing cancer prevention and treatment.
Nelson Mandela University Alumni Relations recognises the vital role of awareness, early detection, and support in the fight against cancer. Today, we stand with survivors, families, and healthcare professionals driving change.