Rédaction Africa Links 24 with lexpress
Published on 2024-03-09 02:45:00
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| On the occasion of March 8, women were sensitized to female cancers during an event organized by the Arovy Association. |
Almost half of women diagnosed with breast and cervical cancer have a severe form of the disease due to a lack of awareness.
One in seven diagnosed women has cancer. In Antananarivo, doctors report an increasing number of women affected by cervical cancer and breast cancer.
According to an oncologist, 25% of these patients have breast cancer and 20% have cervical cancer. Cervical cancer and breast cancer are two specific cancers in women. A doctor confirms that more than half of his patients have a severe form of these cancers due to a lack of knowledge about these diseases.
Yesterday, at Anosy, at the Madagascar Medical Institute, on the occasion of the International Women’s Rights Day, a conference organized by the Arovy Association, entitled “March 8, investing in women’s health, a source of economic prosperity,” was held. Doctor Malala Razakanaivo, an oncologist and one of the speakers, explained these diseases highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
This disease affects more and more women, but not all of them consult specialists.
“Nearly 60% of my patients have severe cases of these diseases because they do not know the disease or do not consult doctors. Due to ignorance,” reports the doctor. This is one of the primary issues of this disease. Women only become aware of the disease when they experience its most significant negative effects. Moreover, these cancers can be prevented if detected at an early stage.
Furthermore, the screening methods for these diseases are still not well known to Malagasy women. For breast cancer, regular self-examination or mammography is required, while for cervical cancer, a pap smear is necessary. These methods are still inaccessible to many and unknown to some generations, although they could help prevent these diseases.
Awareness
This event by the Arovy Association aimed to raise awareness among women about these different diseases and their prevention methods. The lack of awareness is also an obstacle. “Awareness should be improved to reach as many women as possible and inform them about these diseases. This is also the goal of this conference.
In addition to breast and cervical cancers, other doctors yesterday addressed the subjects of stress and the importance of a healthy diet. Women need to be supported to thrive in their daily lives and contribute to the well-being of the country,” explains Emma Ralijohn, a member of the Arovy Association’s board. There is still much to be done regarding these diseases.
It is important to emphasize that these diseases require ongoing awareness, as women are faced with various risk factors. These include poor diet, smoking, and health issues.
Miora Raharisolo
Read the original article(French) on lexpress.mg
