ZUFIAW Chairperson Urges Early Breast Cancer Screening, Calls for Support for Patients

Zambia Union Of Financial Institutions And Allied Workers (ZUFIAW) National Women’s Chairperson Patricia Mwanza Sakala has urged the public to prioritise early breast cancer screening and support people undergoing treatment as Zambia joins the rest of the world in marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In a message for the month of October, Ms Sakala said breast cancer affects not only women but can also affect men, calling for collective action to raise awareness and encourage early detection.

She appealed to families, workplaces and communities to encourage one another to get screened, stressing that early detection can improve the chances of successful treatment.

Ms Sakala also expressed solidarity with patients undergoing treatment, including those who have lost their hair through chemotherapy.

She said wearing dukus, or headscarves, during the awareness month was a symbol of love and support for people affected by breast cancer, particularly women who lose their hair while undergoing treatment.

“This month, we continue to wear our Dukus in solidarity, in love, and in honour of every woman who has lost her hair while fighting for her life. It is a small symbol with a big message: You are not alone,” she said.

Ms Sakala thanked those who continue to support patients and their families, adding that ZUFIAW believes awareness, love and solidarity can help communities respond to the disease.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed every October to promote awareness, early detection and support for people affected by the disease. The World Health Organization has also highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and access to timely treatment.