World Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Globally, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 670, 000 deaths in 2022, making it the most prevalent cancer in the world. Breast cancer was the most common cancer in women in 157 countries out of 185 in 2022. Approximately 0.5-1% of breast cancers occur in men. In Saint Lucia, breast cancer is the number one cause of death in women and also the main cause of premature death in women. Most of these diagnoses are made in women from the age group 45-55years. The Ministry of Health together with the rest of the world observes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and intensifies public health education to improve awareness among women of the importance of screening, the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and, understand the importance of early detection and treatment. We anticipate that with accurate information more women would consult medical practitioners when breast cancer is first suspected, and before the cancer is advanced. Early diagnosis needs to be linked to effective and timely cancer treatment that requires specialized cancer care.