A new state-of-the-art mammogram machine is set to arrive in Rarotonga by next Friday, Prime Minister Mark Brown announced this at a Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation event on Saturday night.

Tens of supporters gathered under the stars at the Tamarind House to celebrate at the Early Detection Ball for Ribbons of Hope event and to show their support for the breast cancer battle in the Cook Islands.

The last mammogram screening was held in 2022, and an estimated 1900 women are awaiting screening due to an aging machine that has neared the end of its lifespan and operated at reduced capacity.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Brown announced that a new state-of-the-art mammogram machine is on its way to our shores.

“According to the Siemens project team, the machine is scheduled to arrive in Auckland, New Zealand, this coming Tuesday, 3^rd December, with an anticipated arrival in Rarotonga by Thursday or Friday next week,” Brown said.

“This vital piece of equipment represents a leap forward in our ability to provide early and accurate breast cancer detection. Our country has been without a machine for just over two years.”

The installation of the mammogram machine is planned for the week of December 9 to 13. Following this, a three-day application training session will take place from December 17-19.

“This training is critical to ensure that our local radiographer and visiting mammographer are confident in operating this advanced technology,” Brown said.

“During the training period, 38 women identified as high-risk, aged between 55 and 65, will be screened. This marks an important first step in putting the new equipment to use and in ensuring our healthcare professionals are well-prepared for broader screenings in the future.”

The Prime Minister acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the long-serving visiting mammographer, Janine O’Neill, and breast physician, Dr. Fran Jones who will be assisting Te Marae Ora health ministry during this initial phase.

“While the hospital will not conduct full screenings at this time, their work lays a strong foundation for the services that will expand next year. Te Marae Ora will once again collaborate with the Foundation to ensure that women from the Pa Enua have access to flights to Rarotonga so they can be screened.”

Te Marae Ora has also identified four additional mammographers who will participate in online training to prepare for future screening sessions, demonstrating their commitment to building capacity for ongoing care.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of many individuals and organisations. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation for their tireless advocacy and to everyone involved in this project. Your dedication ensures that the women of the Cook Islands have access to life-saving resources,” Brown said.

“Looking ahead, this new machine is more than just a piece of equipment; it is a symbol of hope, progress, and the importance of early detection in saving lives. Together, we are making significant strides in the fight against breast cancer, and tonight’s gathering is a testament to what we can achieve when we work as one.”

Jaewynn McKay, president of the Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation, warmly welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement of the arrival of our new mammogram machine.

“This is a monumental step forward for women’s health in our country, ensuring that early detection and life-saving screenings are accessible to our people,” McKay said.

“This achievement is a testament to the collective efforts of our government, health professionals, and the unwavering support of our community. Together, we can make a tangible difference in the fight against breast cancer.

“The Foundation looks forward to working with Te Marae Ora to facilitate travel for women from the Pa Enua to come to Rarotonga for screening in the coming months. This collaboration ensures that no one is left behind in our commitment to saving lives through early detection.”

The Early Detection Ball for Ribbons of Hope also featured an art auction of several masterpieces by local and international artists, raising over $3000 which will be donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation.