KIGALI, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Eight years ago, a Rwandan woman named Francine received the devastating diagnosis of stage-four breast cancer. Thanks to an early diagnosis, she underwent a successful mastectomy and is now on the path to recovery.
Today, she frequents a wellness center in Kigali, Rwanda's capital, where she connects with fellow cancer patients for support and explores ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle. "I felt anger, anxiety and hatred towards myself but I have since adapted and gained confidence again in my life," Francine said.
Francine was one of the hundreds who took to the streets of Kigali last Sunday to raise awareness about breast cancer. "Raising awareness about cancer is crucial because people not only need to understand the nature of the disease but also the potential for positive treatment outcomes," she said.
The Ulinzi Walk, organized by the voluntary group Breast Cancer Initiative East Africa (BCIEA), sought to dispel myths about breast cancer and promote early detection.
This annual event is part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed in October to raise awareness about the disease, its symptoms, risk factors, prevention measures and the significance of early diagnosis.
Phillipa Kigubu-Decuir, the founder of BCIEA, considered the event a significant success in terms of enhancing awareness of preventive measures. She stressed the importance of educating women about the disease to ensure early detection before it becomes life-threatening.
Kigubu-Decuir noted that early diagnosis plays a pivotal role in saving lives.
Following the Ulinzi Walk, various related activities took place, including free clinical breast exams, sharing of testimonies, and screening for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, blood pressure, and body mass.
The event drew participants from various age groups, and Kigubu-Decuir believes that the youth can serve as catalysts for change by encouraging their parents to undergo regular check-ups.
She underpinned the importance of dispelling myths and taboos surrounding breast cancer, saying that ignorance and lack of awareness are significant contributors to the disease's impact.
Notably, breast cancer patients in Rwanda now have access to treatment at various healthcare facilities. Community health workers are actively engaged in awareness campaigns, educating women about breast cancer self-examination and screening.
Kigubu-Decuir, who tragically lost her sister to breast cancer, stressed the need for continued efforts to reduce the cost of treatment and drug transportation. She summarized her message in three key points: "Love yourself, know yourself, and prioritize regular checkups."
