Malawi commemorates 2017 breast cancer month
Every year, the world observes breast cancer awareness month in October. For the past four years, Think Pink Malawi has been organizing activities to educate the pubic on the importance of early detection of breast and cervical cancer under the theme “Early detection saves lives”.
The 2017 events kicked off on 7th October with a fundraising brunch at Kumbali Lodge for Salima awareness campaign. Mary Chilima, wife to the country’s Vice President was the Guest of honor.
On 14th October breast cancer awareness walk under the theme “Step Up for a Greater Cause” took place from Parliament Building to Lilongwe Wildlife Center. MP Juliana Lunguzi was among some notable public figures present at the walk.
About 537 people walked and on the day, 71 women were screened for breast cancer and 45 for cervical cancer. 2 cases were found with cervical cancer lesions and treated with thermal coagulation.
Speaking in an interview, Think Pink Malawi founder Blandina Khondowe said people walked to celebrate survivors, support those fighting and honour those that lost the fight.
“The main mission is to spread the message that early detection of breast cancer saves lives. Women make up 52% of the population in Malawi and have little or no access to information on diseases like
breast cancer. After awareness campaigns, we offered free screening for both Cervical and Breast cancer,” she said.
Cock Pit Lounge donated K300, 000 to purchase breast and cervical cancer diagnostic tests for underprivileged women.
On Suturday 21st October the campaign went to Salima District in T/A Khombedza’s area.
The community awareness campaign at Khombeza in Salima district was graced by Head of Women Caucus in Parliament, Jessie Kabwila.
Among others, Lilongwe Round Table 32 donated K760, 000 towards diagnostic treatment and support for 10 mammograms for underprivileged women.
Think Pink Malawi is a breast cancer awareness organization that was established in October 2014 by former Miss Malawi Blandina Khondowe who is a breast cancer survivor, with support from equally passionate friends.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month in pictures courtesy of Kaso Media.
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