The ManicaPost
EVERY October, people from across the world come together in solidarity to show their support for those affected by breast cancer.
The Pink Month, as it is known, is a month where efforts are made to raise awareness on breast cancer, including why early identification is crucial, as well as the risk factors, signs and symptoms of the disease.
The information is priceless as it helps save lives.
Breast cancer is among the most common cancers, with lung, prostrate, colon and rectum cancers also making the list.
This is why global coordination of efforts is required to combat the disease.
According to statistics released by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in December 2020, breast cancer is the world’s mostly commonly-diagnosed cancer.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) says in the past two decades, the overall number of people diagnosed with cancer nearly doubled, from an estimated 10 million in 2000 to 19.3 million in 2020.
Projections suggest that the number of people being diagnosed with cancer will increase further in the coming years, most probably due to the lifestyles being embraced by the majority of people, including unhealthy diets, insufficient physical activity, use of tobacco and harmful use of alcohol.
The number of deaths from cancer has also increased, from 6.2 million in 2000 to 10 million in 2020.
When we zoom into breast cancer, every year the disease kills more than 500 000 women around the world. In resource-poor settings, the majority of women with breast cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage of disease, resulting in low survival rates.
However, despite popular beliefs that only women are at risk of getting breast cancer, men can also get breast cancer.
It usually happens in men over 60, but can very occasionally affect younger men.
Cancer is also a leading cause of death for children and adolescents, with an estimated 400 000 children diagnosed with various types of cancer each year.
It combating cancer, it is crucial to remember the risk factors so that we can be more combative.
Many factors influence breast cancer risk, including family history, lifestyle habits and advancing age.
Medical experts opine that late diagnosis and lack of access to treatment is exacerbating the global cancer situation.
With about 90 percent of early stage breast cancers curable, early detection provides the best chance of successful treatment and cure.
This is why people should have regular screenings so that if they get cancer, they can find it early when it’s most treatable and curable.
But despite theexcellent treatment options available, the world would want to get to a point where people don’t get cancer to begin with.
Minimising the risk of getting cancer includes eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
Exercise, by the way, does not have to be vigorous; something as simple as a brisk walk can help too.
People should also avoid eating fatty and sugary foodstuffs, as well as drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes.
This October, as Zimpapers, we are moving ahead with our partners in efforts to prevent and control cancer and also to provide support to all people living with cancer, wherever they live and whatever their circumstances.
For that reason, you cannot afford not to take part in our Zimpapers Power Walk on the 5th of November.
Help make sure that Island Hospice gets support in being there for those affected by breast cancer.
Wear a pink ribbon. Walk for a noble cause, raise money and help fund life-changing cancer research and support.
