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Chidochashe Kossam
BREAST cancer is a disease that affects millions of women worldwide, and Zimbabwe is no exception.
In Zimbabwe breast cancer accounts for about 11.5 percent of cancers. According to the latest World Health Organisation (WHO) data published in 2020, breast cancer deaths in Zimbabwe reached 839 or 0.77 percent of total deaths.
As the nation joins the rest of the world in marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marked every October, the city of Bulawayo is holding an event that aims to raise awareness on breast cancer.
The event that will serve as a platform to educate, empower, and support those affected by this devastating illness will take place on 14 October at Hartsfield Tshisanyama.
Besides raising awareness, the event also seeks to encourage early detection, promote regular screenings, and provide vital information.
The event will feature a range of activities, including educational workshops, survivor testimonies, live music performances, and a vibrant marketplace showcasing local artisans and businesses.
Known for its lively atmosphere and cultural significance, Hartsfield Tshisanyama will embody the spirit of strength and resilience that breast cancer survivors and fighters possess.
Hartsfield Tshisanyama no doubt will be transformed into a hub of hope, where survivors will be celebrated, and the community will rally together to raise funds for treatment, research, and support services.
The event is also expected to foster a sense of unity within the community, as survivors, caregivers, and supporters will come together to share their stories, offer encouragement, and provide a shoulder to lean on.
A breast cancer survivor, Chipo Moyo is also going to share her powerful journey and the challenges she faced during her treatment.
Moyo said she would highlight the crucial role of awareness campaigns in destigmatising the disease and encouraging women to seek medical help without fear or shame.
“These breast cancer awareness campaigns are what motivated me to go through the process of breast cancer screening.
“I was devastated at first when I learnt that I’m also a victim of breast cancer. The journey wasn’t easy but I made it through due to following awareness campaigns on breast cancer which helped me on what I could do to heal,” said Moyo.
Moyo also advocates for support groups and counseling services to help survivors cope with the emotional and physical aftermath of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, affecting millions of women and their families.
In Zimbabwe, where healthcare resources are limited, raising awareness about breast cancer becomes even more crucial.
An oncologist, Dr Tendai Makoni, emphasises the significance of breast cancer awareness in Zimbabwe.
She said that early detection was key to improving survival rates and reducing the burden of the disease.
Dr Makoni also stressed the importance of educating women about self-examination techniques and the need for regular screenings, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited.
As the city gears up for the event, it is a reminder that by standing together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.
Siphakeme .Mnindwa
