The month of October is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM), which has been observed annually for the past 90 years.
It is known as “Pink October” because people all over the globe wear pink and display a pink ribbon to spread awareness of the value of routine screening and prevention for the early diagnosis of breast cancer, which is currently the most prevalent disease diagnosed in the world.
The theme for this year is “Keeping Her in the Picture,” which is an appeal to everyone to keep an eye out for the welfare of the significant women in their life.
According to current statistics, breast cancer is the third most frequent cancer (both sexes, all ages) and most prevalent cancer among women in Kenya.
Even though there is a dearth of information on metastatic breast cancer (MBC), also known as stage IV or advanced breast cancer, in Kenya, it was discovered that 18.2% of women had MBC in 2014. Patients who get an MBC diagnosis may feel alone, and many struggle with inadequate psychological and medical support.
Breast cancer affects males as well, despite the fact that it affects women considerably more frequently, but lack of awareness and stigma may make it harder for men to get care and treatment.
The Ministry of Health advises everyone to get screened, regardless of gender, and not to be afraid of it because breast cancer can go into full remission. This implies that the cancer can be successfully treated and won’t come back. The prognosis for breast cancer is often extremely good, and it is easily curable in its early stages.
Governments and private groups are urged to use this month to support programmes and breast cancer patients, as well as to educate the public about the disease, especially to lessen stigma among males who are diagnosed with the condition.
