"Regular health check-ups and early detection are key in the treatment of breast cancer. The early detection of breast cancer in women is important for the effective management of the disease. Although there is no current treatment to prevent breast cancer, early detection of the disease can lead to an excellent outcome".
This was highlighted by the Minister for Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation, Rosy Akbar while officiating at the Soroptimist International, Fiji Region Pinktober Awareness in Nadi.
The Soroptimist International, Fiji Region will be working in collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Children, and Poverty Alleviation in conducting and promoting awareness of Cancer.
Minister Akbar handed over the Grant Assistance to Soroptimist International - Fiji Region, to be shared amongst the Soroptimist Clubs as part of empowering women to promote Cancer Awareness in Fiji. She stated that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer on our women and girls.
"I encourage that we take advantage of this opportunity and call on all women to have themselves checked during these breast cancer awareness programs. Initiatives like these are so critical in our society, especially for our women who are further marginalized due to a lack of access to essential health services. Women's experiences of health and disease differ from those of men, due to unique biological, social, and behavioural conditions. Women's health is of particular concern due to widespread discrimination against women in the world, leaving them disadvantaged throughout their life cycle. Therefore, the more awareness and the more outreach, the better", Minister Akbar added.
Minister Akbar stated that this is exactly why women need to pay attention to their own selves first and foremost. Most women overlook and ignore what their bodies are trying to tell them. They prioritise everyone and everything else, except themselves. This is why families also have to look out for the well-being of their mothers, wives, and daughters as well."
She stated that early detection methods for breast cancer include screening mammography, a clinical breast examination by a trained health professional, and breast awareness.
Minister Akbar thanked Soroptimist International-Fiji Region, Fiji Cancer Society, and other stakeholder partners for providing awareness on cancer, health checks, and breast screenings to women and girls in Fiji.