20 Oct 2014

Riverwalk Mall was on October 17 decorated in pink as the Ministry of Health in collaboration with Princess Marina commemorated the breast cancer awareness month.

The public came in large numbers donned in pink as they flashed placards with awareness messages such as “cancer cannot silence us”, "cancer cannot destroy peace”, “cancer can not.”

The highlight of the day was a testimony from cancer survivor, Ms Lesedi Setlhare who narrated how she beat the silent killer. Ms Setlhare said fighting cancer was the worst battle but it could be won only if one could be strong and courageous.

“The best way to conquer cancer is to erase the fear of death because cancer is not a death sentence it can be cured,” she said. She went on to state that she was diagnosed with the disease last year July after a cancerous lump was detected on her left breast . She said had previously removed five lumps before, which were not cancerous.

Ms Setlhare encouraged those affected by the disease to surround themselves with people who cared and supported them and were willing to walk with them throughout the journey as they fought cancer.

She noted that after her diagnosis, she went through chemotherapy, which brought painful side effects as nausea, mood swings, fatigue and anger. The cancer survivor further stated that her hair began to fall off and subsequently cut all her hair, which she did not mind because she knew she was going through healing process.

Giving a speech Dr Memory Nsingo- Bvochora, an oncologist at Gaborone Private Hospital said breast cancer remains one of the leading cancers globally causing the most significant mortality amongst women.

She stated that in Botswana it remains the second leading cancer among women after cervical cancer with 1331 cases recorded between 2001 and 2011.

She said during the same period 19 percent of the reported cases succumbed to the disease however noting that these deaths can be prevented if detected early.

Dr Nsingo-Bvochora said men are also affected by the diseases though their numbers are small compared to women standing at only 0.3 percent worldwide.

She highlighted that this year’s theme “Know your breast” is an empowerment to both women and the community at large as it challenges everyone to take responsibility and prevent breast cancer.

“It is proven that through simple measure like promoting self-awareness among women can help reduce burden of breast cancer.” The doctor said the theme challenges everyone to know their body, appreciate their breasts and be their own watchdogs to seek appropriate help when they notice anything abnormal.

She emphasised on healthy lifestyle such exercising, alcohol reduction, stop smoking and eating well which are the simple things that go a long way in preventing breast cancer.

“There is life after breast cancer so we need not to be afraid and to those directly and indirectly affected lets come together and join in this journey.” ENDS