More than 500 Namibian women on average are diagnosed with a form of breast cancer annually, Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) chief executive officer Rolf Hansen has said.

To address this challenge locally, CAN and Roche Pharmaceuticals are
joining forces during the months of September and October to host a series of educational campaigns, free breast screening clinics, and an interdisciplinary workshop.

Hansen, in an interview with Nampa on Thursday, said that in Namibia, breast cancer holds the unfortunate distinction of being the most prevalent cancer and affects women of all ages and diverse backgrounds, underscoring the need for widespread awareness and proactive measures.

“Early detection is crucial for saving lives. Raising awareness, providing education, and conducting regular screenings are vital components of our efforts. Understanding the early
warning signs of breast cancer is pivotal
for early detection. Regular self-examinations and awareness can make a significant difference in diagnosis and treatment,” he said.

The campaign started on Wednesday with a free breast screening campaign offered in Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Otjiwarongo and Tsumeb until 16 September 2023.

Megan Losper from Roche Pharmaceuticals, on her part, said that raising awareness and providing education, as well as conducting regular screening, is a vital component of their efforts against breast cancer in
Namibia.

She added that Namibian women
 have a responsibility to proactively seek regular screening and education, making them responsible for their own health.

“Every year, more and more patients are diagnosed younger, but if you are aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer you can make that change,” she said.

- Nampa