Group Photo At The Event In Banjul
By Ramatoulie Jawo
In solidarity with global efforts to raise awareness about breast cancer, the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), in collaboration with the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) and other sister security services, commemorated this year’s Pink October with an event at the School of Nursing in Banjul on Friday.
The occasion aimed to amplify education and awareness about breast cancer, a disease affecting millions worldwide.
The commemoration featured a march that started from the Memorial Arch to the School of Nursing, symbolizing the importance of breast cancer awareness. Military personnel, healthcare workers, and members of the public participated, showcasing their collective support for the cause.
As part of the ceremony, ECOMIG health personnel delivered a presentation on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, along with a demonstration on how to perform a self-examination.
Addressing the gathering, ECOWAS Resident Representative to The Gambia, Miatta Lily French, underscored the campaign’s alignment with the broader goal of ensuring the well-being of soldiers.
“These initiatives underpin the fact that the peacekeeping mission is dedicated to the well-being of the communities we serve beyond our mandate. Despite our emphasis on peacekeeping, the ECOMIG mission acknowledges that genuine peace is not solely the absence of conflict but also the presence of health, dignity, and equal opportunities for all,” she said.
She further stressed the need to remember that health is a key pillar of a proactive and harmonious society.
French encouraged the public to take part in the activities scheduled throughout the month in support of those battling breast cancer.
“I am calling on the security personnel, civilians and the local communities to engage in the activities that are scheduled for this month to the fullest in promoting a more informed and healthier society. We demonstrate our dedication by supporting screenings, attending awareness sessions and wearing pink. To those who are presently undergoing treatment for breast cancer, we stand with you. Your resilience and courage serve as a source of inspiration for our unwavering commitment to advocate for a future in which no individual is compelled to confront this illness alone,” she said.
She emphasized that the first step in this campaign is raising awareness, urging everyone to be mindful of their own health, assist those in need, and work towards ensuring health equity and accessible care for all.
Major Eunice Holman, from the ECOMIG contingent, highlighted that their awareness campaign is also being spread throughout ECOMIG’s areas of operation. She called on the public to unite in showing solidarity with those battling breast cancer, noting that about 0.5% to 1% of men are also at risk of developing the disease.
“Cancer is a disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Its impact is felt by millions of families, communities and society as a whole. It is crucial that we come together to show our support and solidarity with those who are fighting this battle and raise awareness about the importance of preventive measures and early detection. Breast cancer affects not only women but also men. It is interesting to note that about 0.5 to 1% of the male population is also at risk of contracting breast cancer,” she said.
According to research, over 360,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024. However, there is hope. Advances in early detection and treatment continue to improve survival rates. When detected at its earliest stages, the five-year relative survival rate for breast cancer is 99%.
As one of the most common cancers worldwide, breast cancer campaigns like Pink October play a vital role in promoting early detection and treatment, which can greatly improve survival outcomes.