Zambia: United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Country Representative, Penelope Campbell has called for routine breast cancer screening for both the young and adults. She made the remarks as a part of the breast cancer awareness month commemoration.
The world is commemorating World Breast Cancer Awareness Month in many countries all over the world. The United Nations approved month long celebrations seek to promote better understanding of the disease among all age groups.
The officials have shared that the breast cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths among women, as far as various types of cancers are concerned. The month of October is designated to spread awareness regarding the disease.
As per the experts, anyone over the age of forty should take up frequent screenings for breast cancer.
The disease, which was earlier believed to be affecting only the female half of the population, has also been affecting the male population now. It is believed that the males over a certain age may also be at a risk for cancer, which makes screenings crucial for everyone.
She has pointed out that earlier detection of cancer can save the life of any victims as they would get early treatment. The officials of the UNICEF have shared that they are dedicated to making sure that less and less people lose their lives to the disease.
The UNICEF representatives Campbell was speaking when she officiated at the first ever cook-a-thon competition. The event was organised by Break Through Cancer Trust in support of the cancer survivors.
She also emphasized on the need to raise cancer awareness among young people. Lifestyle changes have contributed significantly to the increase in the number of cancer cases in the world.
More and more youngsters are currently facing the threat of a cancer diagnosis due to a variety of reasons. Campbell stressed that young people should be empowered with information awareness on breast cancer.
She has also expressed her disappointment over the fact that cancer attacks all age groups hence the urgency to promote cancer awareness in communities. Break Through Cancer Trust Chairperson Demetria Lubinga said the Trust remains committed to continuing raising awareness on cancer.
Lubinga explained that the cook-a-thon competition is one way the Trust is using to raise breast cancer awareness.