Lacy Hubbard, Founding President and CEO of Elekta Foundation, shared on LinkedIn:
“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
But awareness must go hand in hand with access to care.
When our cervical cancer screening program began expanding in Rwanda, we quickly realized how serious the breast cancer challenge was for women in rural communities. Many were unaware of the warning signs, while others turned to traditional healers, sometimes delaying medical diagnosis.
That’s why we introduced a 2-in-1 screening model, integrating clinical breast examinations into our cervical cancer screening program.
The pathway starts close to home, at a local health center. Women with abnormal findings are referred to a district hospital for ultrasound, followed by biopsy and patient navigation when needed.
Over the past four years, nearly 400,000 women have received clinical breast examinations.
We’ve made progress, but a story shared with me just yesterday by Dr. Emmanuel Manirakiza, our lead doctor of the screening program, reminds me how much more there is to do.
A young woman, 30 years old and 17 weeks pregnant, had visited her local health center several times with breast symptoms but was given painkillers. When our screening team finally reached her village, she was referred for an ultrasound that raised serious concern for breast cancer. She is now receiving support to obtain an urgent biopsy, specialist care, and social support.
I keep thinking about the uncertainty she faces while carrying a baby. Sadly, hers is one of too many similar stories I’ve heard over the years.
Early detection is not just about screening. It requires community education, trained healthcare workers, timely diagnosis, and support to help women access treatment.
This October, let’s turn awareness into action. Because awareness alone cannot save lives if care remains out of reach.”
You can also read:
October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Turning Awareness Into Earlier Diagnosis and Better Care.
