Breast cancer is a silent, often misunderstood threat that lurks close to many women, particularly in rural communities where awareness and access to healthcare are limited. This lack of discussion and understanding of breast cancer in such areas has profound consequences. Not only does it lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, but it also perpetuates a cycle of misinformation and stigma that is challenging to break.

A few years ago, my aunt lost her life to breast cancer, a battle which she fought in a context of misunderstanding and judgement. At her funeral, and in the days which followed, I remember hearing fragments of conversations that came with inaccurate information and blame. There was a tendency among family members, especially the older generation, to attribute her illness to external factors they barely understood, such as technology, or a perceived lack of traditional respect. This feeling to blame “modern ways” or lifestyle changes highlights a prevalent issue in many rural communities: the unwillingness to discuss health matters openly, and the tendency to lean on misconceptions rather than facts.

Growing up, my aunt was raised in a conservative Oshiwambo family led by her father, who was a pastor. However, she often took a different path. Known for her liberal beliefs, she was not bound by the same traditional expectations as her siblings. She rarely felt confined by customary practices or religious expectations, choosing instead to live her life as she saw fit. This difference in lifestyle caused tension within her family, and when she fell ill, the distance she had created from these traditions only intensified the judgement she faced.

In many rural areas, women like my aunt are often judged harshly when they return home in poor health. Their non-conformity is often viewed with suspicion, and illness is sometimes interpreted as punishment for stepping outside traditional norms. When my aunt’s health began to decline, her father harshly remarked that she had finally “found what she was looking for.” In their view, her condition was a result of her disregard for tradition, and the family initially suspected she had HIV, which was then — and still is, in some communities — the most-feared illness.

It was only after her symptoms persisted, and further examination was done, that the family learned she was suffering from breast cancer. Unfortunately, this revelation did not bring relief or understanding. The family was confused, unsure of how to support her, and lacking any knowledge of how to care for someone with cancer. This confusion speaks to the broader issue in rural spaces, where diseases like breast cancer are rare topics of conversation. Misunderstood and often hidden, breast cancer does not receive the attention it requires, making it an even more daunting enemy. The experience of breast cancer can be terrifying for anyone, especially if one has never been exposed to it through education or first-hand experience. For instance, noticing an unusual lump in the breast, often while showering or bathing, can be an alarming discovery. Many symptoms can vary among individuals, but the most common sign is a lump or mass in the breast, which may differ in size and texture. Additional symptoms may include skin changes, pain or swelling in parts of the breast. Without proper education, these signs are often overlooked until the disease progresses to a severe stage.

The lack of awareness and understanding in rural areas only serves to reinforce the stigma and fear surrounding breast cancer. Many women suffer in silence, not knowing how or where to seek help. It is crucial to bridge the knowledge gap by educating communities about breast cancer, its symptoms, and available treatment options. Awareness campaigns, screenings and support systems must reach even the most remote areas so that women do not have to face this monster alone.

By addressing the misconceptions and providing accessible information, we can ensure that no woman, regardless of where she lives, feels helpless or judged in her battle against breast cancer. Acknowledging breast cancer as a real, widespread issue is the first step towards building a supportive environment for those who are affected.

*Frieda Mukufa’s lifestyle section concentrates on women-related issues and parenting bi-weekly in the New Era newspaper. She also specialises in editing research proposals, proofreading as well as content-creation. – etuholefrieda@gmail.com