BREAST CANCER MONTH AWARENESS RAISED

Conferring to World Health Organisation (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer in women both in the developed and less developed world.

Although breast cancer is thought to be a disease of the developed world, almost 50% of breast cancer cases and 58% of deaths occur in less developed countries (GLOBOCAN, 2008).

Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) is an annual international health campaign organised every October to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its course, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. The Campaign also offers information and support to those affected by breast cancer.

On the 31st October 2017, Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) joined hands with the rest of the world to raise awareness about the breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Awareness Month aids in increasing attention and support for the awareness, early detection and treatment as well as palliative care for the disease. During the event, HRDC invited Ms Boitumelo Maila, a surviving breast cancer victim who informed staff about her experience when dealing with the disease and how she survived the deadly disease. Giving her testimony on surviving the breast cancer, Ms Boitumelo Maila emphatically shared, “A cancer patient needs a strong support system from friends and family members. I was able to gain strength from seeing my family supporting me and encouraging me to go through treatment with a positive mind. In a nutshell, their support infused with immense love made me strong at all times when I had to undergo chemo therapy”.

She also preached a message of hope, faith, grace, bravery and love. Ms Maila also motivated HRDC staff to ensure they go through medical check - ups every year as it is important to detect breast cancer at an early stage. The occasion was further lit by two HRDC male staff members who modeled with high heel ‘Stilleto’ shoes as a sign of awareness and support towards breast cancer patients for going through struggles.  It is worth noting that, HRDC reception area in honour of Breast Cancer was dressed in all shades of pink colours throughout the month in remembrance of breast cancer.