The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PIWAK Natural Health , Dr Prince Nelson Mortoti, has urged women to pay greater attention to their breast health by undertaking regular and proper medical check-ups to facilitate the early detection of breast cancer.
Dr Mortoti, who is also the producer of 3P Garlic Mixture, said breast cancer remained a serious health concern that could have devastating consequences for women and their families if not detected and treated early.
He made the call as part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed every October to create awareness about the disease, encourage early detection and promote access to appropriate treatment.
According to him, women must develop the habit of knowing the normal appearance and feel of their breasts and seek medical attention whenever they notice unusual changes.
He stressed that early detection could improve treatment outcomes and give patients a better chance of successfully managing the disease.
Serious consequences.
Dr Mortoti noted that breast cancer could lead to the loss of life, while some women who survive the disease might undergo surgery, including mastectomy, depending on the stage and nature of the cancer.
He said the loss of a breast could have emotional and psychological effects on some survivors, particularly where women struggled with changes to their body image and self-confidence.
He therefore encouraged women not to wait until they experienced severe symptoms before seeking medical attention.
According to him, women should take breast health seriously and make regular medical examinations part of their routine healthcare.
Emotional impact.
Dr Mortoti further observed that a breast cancer diagnosis could place significant emotional pressure on patients and their families.
He said some women could experience fear, anxiety, depression and uncertainty following a diagnosis or treatment, making emotional and social support an important part of the cancer-care process.
He urged families, partners and communities to support women undergoing treatment rather than stigmatising or abandoning them.
“Women must love their breasts and take their breast health seriously. Do not wait until you feel a lump or notice a serious change before you seek medical attention,” he advised.
October awareness.
Dr Mortoti encouraged women to use the Breast Cancer Awareness Month as an opportunity to educate themselves about the disease and undergo appropriate clinical examinations and screening as recommended by qualified healthcare professionals.
He said women should consult health professionals about the most appropriate screening method for their age and individual risk factors.
He also encouraged women to seek prompt medical attention if they noticed symptoms such as a new lump in the breast or armpit, unusual changes in breast size or shape, skin changes, nipple discharge, or persistent breast or nipple changes.
He cautioned against relying solely on self-examination or herbal preparations for diagnosing or treating breast cancer, stressing that suspected breast cancer requires proper medical assessment.
Call for awareness.
The PIWAK CEO appealed to health institutions, civil society organisations, traditional leaders and the media to intensify public education on breast cancer to help reduce late presentation and improve awareness.
He said continuous education would empower women to recognise possible warning signs and seek professional care early.
Dr Mortoti further called on women to make their health a priority and take advantage of breast cancer awareness activities throughout October to obtain reliable information and appropriate medical checks.
He said the fight against breast cancer required collective responsibility, including increased awareness, early detection, appropriate treatment and sustained support for survivors.
