Early detection saves lives, that is a message Minister of Health Valasi Tafito Selesele during Pinktober Month in Samoa.
According to the Minister, this is what the Samoa Cancer Society has been working together with partners and volunteers to encourage women to avoid cancer.
Savali reports not only the importance of early detection but recognizing the signs and symptoms as well as seeking medical advice and learning to do breast self-examinations.
Valasi said Pinktober is a symbol of support and working together reaffirming the theme of this year’s awareness – ‘together we can make a difference.
October is internationally celebrated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This special day is better known in Samoa as Pinktober initiated also to drive awareness and educate women about breast cancer across Samoa.
To date, the Samoa Cancer Society raises awareness of cancer around the clock and hosts Sei Pua Day (a day where the society raises awareness on all types of cancers and raises funds for cancer care for patients and their families, education and awareness programmes, and support services) in the lead up to Pinktober.
Valasi during his keynote address at the launch of Pinktober at the ANZ Main Branch in Apia praised the Samoa Cancer Society for the awareness programme on early detection, spotting signs and symptoms, pursuing medical advice and learning to do breast self-examinations and acknowledged the support that ANZ has towards the fight against the deadly disease.
“The Society also has a longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Health, to provide Cancer Awareness campaigns, as well as palliative care services to those that require this special support,” he added.
The health minister also paid tribute to the Samoa Cancer Society labelling it blessed to have other partners in the business community, volunteers and supporters that make the work that they do possible.
For the rest of this month (October), the Samoa Cancer Society and the business community will be taking part in raising awareness in the community with events such as; the Patient Support Home Visit, the World Cancer Congress held in Geneva Switzerland and the Pinktober Dinner.
SOURCE: SAVALI
