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Jan 18, 2025, 12:34

Miriam Mutebi: Breast cancer is NOT something to sweep under the rug

Miriam Mutebi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital, posted on LinkedIn:

“If you’ve been following my posts, you know by now that in Africa especially, breast cancer awareness is a matter of life and death.

And if you haven’t, well, here’s your wake-up call: Breast cancer is NOT something to sweep under the rug (or your bra).

Early detection can significantly improve survival rates, yet women are still unaware of the signs and symptoms to look for, or where to seek help.

According to the African Cancer Registry, breast cancer accounts for over 25% of all cancer cases among women on the continent. That’s one in four – let that sink in.

Unfortunately, barriers like cultural stigma, lack of resources, and insufficient information mean too many women delay seeking care. And let’s be honest: in some communities, even saying ‘breast’ out loud might earn you a side-eye. But here’s the thing- breasts save lives when we’re brave enough to talk about them.

Ladies, know the signs: lumps, changes in shape, or unusual discharge. Gents, YES, this applies to you too – encourage the women in your life to check themselves.

– Awareness campaigns are crucial to normalizing conversations and empowering women to take control of their health.

So, commit to keeping abreast of breast cancer awareness. Share information, support local initiatives, and start conversations that matter.

Repost, if you want to help break the silence, reduce stigma, and ensure every woman has the knowledge and resources needed to protect her health.”

Miriam Mutebi is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. She is the President of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and past president for Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO) and on the Board of Directors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). She is the co-founder of the Pan African Women’s Association of Surgeons and is part of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons. She is an avid supporter for the education and support for women, especially in surgery and she aims to provide mentorship for women in surgery and to improve women’s health and surgical care in Africa. She is currently pursuing a pilot’s license in order to extend breast care services to marginalized areas.