By Lydia Winda

October is the Global Breast Cancer Awareness month. Founded by the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries in the year 1985, it is a time set aside for all and sundry to join the world in creating awareness about breast cancer and to show solidarity to the affected individuals and their families. This is also a time for raising funds to support the treatment of those affected who cannot afford treatment, and to raise money for breast cancer-related research.

According to the World Health Organization, around 2.3 million new cases of breast cancer are reported each year, making it the most prevalent cancer worldwide. It accounts for one out of every eight instances of cancer in both sexes and 25% of all cancers in women, with 70% of deaths taking place in environments with few resources.

This year’s theme, “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” is a reminder that every single person diagnosed with cancer has a uniquely different story that deserves compassion, empathy, and support. The support following a diagnosis should be extended beyond the affected individual to their families and close friends as well. They all deserve to be treated with dignity regardless of their race, tribe, socio-economic status, or any other distinguishing marker they may bear. Additionally, young and older women ought to be educated on breast self-examination.

As the world marks this year's breast cancer awareness month, it is imperative to remember the importance of being knowledgeable about breast cancer, early diagnosis, timely detection, and effective treatment. The risk factors of breast cancer include genetic predisposition, growing older, having dense breasts, starting a period below the age of 12, getting menopause past the age of 55, drinking alcohol, hormonal therapy, being obese, and lack of physical activity, among others.

To prevent breast cancer, it is advisable for individuals to manage their weight, they should exercise regularly, eat healthy food, avoid alcohol and smoking, and avoid hormonal therapy drugs. Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include: painless, immobile breast lump; discharge from the nipples; inverted nipples; rash or swollen breast; swollen armpit; dimple on the breast; sore nipples or change in shape of the nipple; thickening in one of the breasts; and pain in the breast that is not linked to menstruation. Treatment involves surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Remember, the earlier the detection, the better the management.

Given the cost of cancer treatment, prevention, and awareness creation are the greatest strategies towards averting breast cancer. Every year, the Counseling Department organizes two reproductive health week outreaches (in July and November) where services such as breast and cervical cancer, HIV, and STIs screening are offered for free to the university community and calls on the university community to take advantage of such opportunities to get checked for prevention and early detection purposes.

Join the world in marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing a pink ribbon and supporting the affected families in a way that is appropriate to you.