Xinhua News Agency | October 2, 2024
In Niger, there are 9,787 new cases of cancer each year, stated the Minister of Public Health, Colonel Major Doctor Garba Hakimi, during the breast cancer screening campaign celebrated this Monday, October 1, by the international community.
The annual global breast cancer awareness campaign, known as “Pink October”, aims throughout the month of October not only to raise awareness about early detection of breast cancer but also to encourage solidarity to fight against this plague, which mainly affects women, the Minister of Public Health noted.
Breast cancer is the most widespread cancer in the world, with approximately 2.3 million new cases each year and a mortality rate reaching 70% in resource-limited settings, he pointed out.
The Minister stated that his department “is resolutely determined to reverse this trend through the national cancer control center. Moreover, cancer-related mortality can be reduced through early detection, appropriate treatment, and proper patient management.”
At the international level, the World Health Organization (WHO) aims to reduce global breast cancer mortality by 2.3% per year by 2040, through health promotion, early detection, and comprehensive breast cancer management.
As part of this campaign, several activities will be carried out in Niger, including the dissemination of tailored awareness messages through the media and free breast cancer screening, throughout the month of October.
Cancer Awareness in Niger: Future Trends in Screening and Treatment
In Niger, the alarming figure of 9,787 new cancer cases each year has prompted significant action from health officials, particularly as the global campaign “Pink October” unfolds. This initiative not only heightens awareness around breast cancer but also emphasizes the importance of solidarity in combating such health crises, predominantly affecting women.
With breast cancer being the most prevalent cancer worldwide—accounting for approximately 2.3 million new cases annually—the need for effective strategies cannot be overstated. The stark reality is that in low-resource environments, mortality rates can soar to 70%. Health authorities, led by Colonel Major Garba Hakimi, are unwavering in their commitment to changing this narrative by enhancing early detection and patient care through the National Cancer Control Center.
Looking ahead, one can anticipate increased investment in healthcare infrastructure aimed at improving cancer screening processes. In light of the World Health Organization’s ambition to reduce global breast cancer mortality by 2.3% annually by 2040, proactive approaches—such as community outreach programs and public health campaigns—will likely gain momentum. This could foster a culture of preventative care, encouraging women to seek regular screenings.
Additionally, innovations in treatment modalities will play a crucial role in shaping the future of cancer management in Niger. With advancements in telemedicine and access to online resources, remote consultations and support networks may become more mainstream, ensuring broader access to specialist care for patients residing in remote areas.
Throughout October, various awareness activities, including free breast cancer screenings, will underscore the campaign’s messages across Niger. The collective efforts to drive early detection and offer appropriate treatments are set to make a lasting impact on public health across the nation.