International Breast Cancer Awareness month was celebrated in October across the Region through a variety of activities. Breast cancer is the fastest growing cancer in women in the Region, and is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in about two thirds of countries of the Region.
Its increasing incidence has been linked to changing reproductive patterns associated with improved women’s socioeconomic status. WHO is emphasizing the importance of screening for breast cancer. Early detection through screening means catching the disease at early stages which require less heavy and less costly treatments.
WHO recommends breast education to women of all ages. Regular self-examination can enable a woman to distinguish any changes in breast appearance or any lump in breast tissue, and prompt her to take action without delay.
However, self-examination alone is not enough. The WHO screening strategy also includes the use of clinical breast examination and periodic mammography, to be started and repeated depending on the epidemiological characteristics of breast cancer in each specific country. Ultimately, “screening can save lives”: a breast cancer detected early and well managed will result in total recovery in 95% of cases. That is the message of hope that October carries to all women at risk of breast cancer in the Region”.
Related link
International Breast Cancer Awareness month
International Breast Cancer Awareness month was celebrated in October across the Region through a variety of activities. Breast cancer is the fastest growing cancer in women in the Region, and is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in about two thirds of countries of the Region.
Its increasing incidence has been linked to changing reproductive patterns associated with improved women’s socioeconomic status. WHO is emphasizing the importance of screening for breast cancer. Early detection through screening means catching the disease at early stages which require less heavy and less costly treatments.
WHO recommends breast education to women of all ages. Regular self-examination can enable a woman to distinguish any changes in breast appearance or any lump in breast tissue, and prompt her to take action without delay.
However, self-examination alone is not enough. The WHO screening strategy also includes the use of clinical breast examination and periodic mammography, to be started and repeated depending on the epidemiological characteristics of breast cancer in each specific country. Ultimately, “screening can save lives”: a breast cancer detected early and well managed will result in total recovery in 95% of cases. That is the message of hope that October carries to all women at risk of breast cancer in the Region”.
Related link
International Breast Cancer Awareness month
