Kiran calls for year-round breast cancer awareness

Breast cancer awareness should not be confined to the month of October, but must continue throughout the year in every home, school, and community.

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran highlighted this at the Rakiraki Breast Cancer Awareness program held at the Penang Sangam High School grounds saying breast cancer awareness must not fade when the pink ribbons come down.

Kiran says this is a conversation that must continue every single day — in our homes, in our communities, in our workplaces, and in our schools, because cancer does not keep a calendar.

She also highlighted that cancer remains among the leading causes of premature death among women in Fiji, particularly breast and cervical cancers, and stressed that early detection saves lives.

The Minister is calling on families, friends, and community members to encourage one another to go for screening and seek medical advice without delay.

She further reminded participants of the importance of healthy eating and active lifestyles in reducing cancer risks.

The event, organised by Being Helping Hands Fiji and Prestige Skills Training Academy, brought together around 100 women from neighbouring communities including Nanuku, Vatusekiyasawa, Vatuka, and Rewasa villages to raise awareness on breast cancer prevention, early detection, and healthy living.

A team from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services also supported the program by setting up a health booth and providing free health checks to participants, allowing women to access screening and medical advice on-site.

The program featured the testimonies of breast cancer survivors who shared their personal journey of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery who urged women present to prioritise their health and undergo regular medical check-ups, reminding them that early detection can save lives.

As the month of October comes to an end, the Ministry for Women, Children and Social Protection has continued to work with relevant stakeholders to improve access to health services and raise awareness on breast cancer to rural women.

Kiran thanked all stakeholders, including Being Helping Hands Fiji, Prestige Skills Training Academy, and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services team, for their commitment to empowering women through awareness, preventive health services, and community outreach.