February 3, 2025
News
In Georgia, where access to healthcare has often been a challenge, hope is growing in the fight against cancer. Built and opened by Caritas Czech Republic in November 2019, the Cancer Screening Centre in Zugdidi has been making early detection and prevention more accessible to communities in western Georgia. Thanks to its efforts, more people can receive life-saving screenings, helping to detect cancer at an early stage. “In 2023 for example, not a single day passed without treating at least 10 patientsfor mammography alone,” says Irinia Pochkua, the clinical director of the centre.
Bringing screening services closer to home
Before the Zugdidi centre opened, patients in the region had limited options for cancer screening. “For mammography, people had to travel to Tbilisi or Batumi,” explained Dr Irina Pochkhua. “Now, this screening centre is a significant opportunity for them.” Patients from various towns now have access to critical early detection services without needing to make difficult and expensive journeys.
Since its establishment, the cancer screening centre in Zugdidi has provided vital services to thousands of people, becoming a lifeline for communities across the region. Despite challenges, including interruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the centre has remained steadfast in its mission. It continues to provide free healthcare to patients aged 25 to 70 in Zugdidi and nearby villages, which has dramatically improved the awareness and livelihoods of Georgians in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region.
Combatting stigma and raising awareness
Cancer remains a sensitive topic in Georgia, often blanketed in stigma. However, awareness campaigns led by Caritas Czech Republic have helped shift public perceptions. “There has been a significant difference between 2019 and now,” noted Dr Pochkhua. “The stigma has decreased, and people better understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.”
The centre’s outreach efforts include communication campaigns, social media initiatives, and partnerships with local government. October’s ‘pink month’ for breast cancer awareness is a key period for spreading information. Word of mouth and information sharing via Facebook has also played a vital role in increasing participation.
Comprehensive healthcare services
The Zugdidi centre provides a range of screening services, including mammography, thyroid evaluations, and laboratory tests. Dr Natia Kirtadze, an endocrinologist at the centre, highlighted the prevalence of thyroid issues in the region. “Thyroid problems are endemic in Georgia,” she explained, treating up to 20 patients daily.
Patients often arrive for endoscopy before receiving referrals for further endocrine evaluation and possible biopsy. The centre’s integrated approach allows for streamlined care under one roof, an invaluable resource for managing complex conditions like cancer and diabetes. In 2023, demand continued to grow, with more than 300 mammography screenings conducted monthly. Additionally, the facility operates every day, including half-days on Saturdays, to cater to the community’s needs.
Challenges and continuing efforts
Despite its successes, the centre faces challenges. One of the main issues is ensuring patients return for follow-up screenings when required. “Sometimes patients do not come back for their six-month check-ups,” said Dr Kirtadze. Raising awareness about the importance of consistent monitoring remains a priority.
The establishment of the Zugdidi screening centre reflects a decade-long effort by Caritas Czech Republic alongside Czech Development Agency to improve cancer prevention in Georgia.
Building a better future for healthcare in Georgia
Beyond cancer screening, Caritas Czech Republic has been instrumental in strengthening Georgia’s primary healthcare system. Initiatives include updating clinical protocols, enhancing family doctors’ training, and developing a unified electronic health management system. These efforts aim to reduce the burden on secondary healthcare and improve long-term outcomes for patients.
The opening of the Zugdidi Screening Centre was funded by Czech Development Agency.
