Today is PINK DAY in Namibia, and I am overwhelmed by the immense support and dedication by media partners and corporate Namibia who have stood in solidarity with CAN to “paint the country pink” in support of women fighting cancer, in particular breast cancer.
With more than 55,5% of Namibian cancer patients diagnosed with cancer annually being women, it is the responsibility of each and every Namibian to take hands and fight these cancers that are highly preventable (Cervical cancer) and curable (both Breast and Cervical cancers).
Although some Breast cancer subtypes are hereditary, we see that most affecting women in our country are predominantly life-style related.
Obesity, high alcohol intake, unbalanced diet and in the case of Cervical cancer, unprotected sexual conduct (HPV infection), means that due to our poor lifestyle habits, we are in fact contributing to the burden of cancer in our country.
Today, is our call to arms: “Let us take hands and fight cancer in Namibia”.
How do we do this?
- Become “Lifestyle Smart” – choose healthier hobbits daily (diet, exercise, energy intake vs energy output).
- Become “Body Aware” – know your body and observe lumps, bumps, bruises and non-healing wounds.
- “Be Informed” – Read up, understand, educate yourself on cancer. Break the stigma and fight this disease with knowledge over fear.
- Seek Advice and Help – You have the right to healthcare in Namibia. Speak to your local clinic team, doctor or contact the Cancer Association of Namibia.
- Early Treatment Saves Lives – While up to a third of cancers can be prevented, more than 70% can be treated effectively if not cured completely – IF diagnosed and treated early as possible. Don’t delay, fight cancer today!
We share some statistics:
All females diagnosed with cancer as captured on The Namibia National Cancer Registry (NNCR) 2015 – 2017
2015 – 1951
2016 – 1979
2017 – 1951
Breast Cancer statistics as captured on The Namibia National Cancer Registry (NNCR) 2015 – 2017
2015 – 546
2016 – 593
2017 – 516
Cervical Cancer statistics as captured on The Namibia National Cancer Registry (NNCR) 2015 – 2017
2015 – 295
2016 – 343
2017 – 355
Skin Cancer statistics as captured on The Namibia National Cancer Registry (NNCR) 2015 – 2017
2015 – 314
2016 – 316
2017 – 347
Proceeds of PINK DAY directly benefit our women by supporting the Women’s Health Clinics of CAN; and the National Outreach Programme.
We NEED your support Namibia, to help screen and save lives.