The Gambia Armed Forces in partnership with ECOMIG forces on Friday came together to raise awareness against breast cancer.

As part of event marking this year’s Pink October Day awareness campaign, a march past was organised from the Memorial Arch to the School of Nursing in Banjul. The event showcased a united front in the fight against breast cancer. 

This disease remains a critical global health issue, with 2.3 million women diagnosed and 670,000 fatalities reported worldwide in 2022 alone. It affects women of all ages post-puberty, but its incidence tends to rise with age.

Events like this highlight the importance of education, early detection, and support for those impacted by breast cancer, fostering a sense of community and solidarity in the ongoing battle against this disease.

Speaking at the ceremony, Major Eunice Holman emphasised the importance of uniform effort to fight against the disease while urging people to regularly go for medical check ups.

“As we gather here today, we stand united to raise awareness against breast cancer. The Pink of October serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection, regular screening and access to adequate medical for all,” she said. 

Also addressing the event, Ecowas resident representative, Miatta French said that the services of the regional bloc go beyond just maintaining peace and stability. 

“Despite our emphasis on peacekeeping, the ECOMIG nation acknowledges that genuine peace is not surely the absence of conflict but also the presence of health dignity and health opportunities for all,” she said. 

In this, she described health as “the fundamental component of a productive and harmonious society.”

According to studies, being female is the most significant risk factor for breast cancer, with approximately 99% of cases occurring in women. While breast cancer is much rarer in men, they too are subject to the same treatment protocols as women.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba