The National Reference Hospital's Oncology Unit in Chad organized an open day event on October 28, 2026, as part of the Octobre Rose campaign, focusing on breast cancer awareness and early detection. The event offered free clinical breast cancer screenings, self-examination workshops, and referrals for mammography for suspected cases. This initiative aims to enhance prevention and promote early detection of the disease, particularly for women with limited access to healthcare services.
The hospital's effort is part of a social and non-profit endeavor to facilitate access to screening, raise awareness about the importance of health monitoring, and encourage preventive measures. Blanche Anya, the World Health Organization's representative in Chad, emphasized the significance of the event, highlighting the need for mass participation in early breast cancer screening to ensure timely medical intervention.
The event also served as a platform to educate women on the warning signs of breast cancer, including lumps in the breast or underarm, unusual changes in breast shape or size, skin or nipple changes, and abnormal discharge. Anya stressed the importance of information and awareness in overcoming barriers to screening, such as fear of diagnosis, lack of information, and limited access to healthcare.
According to Professor Ibrahim Hamat, the hospital's general director, early diagnosis of breast cancer can lead to successful treatment. He emphasized that prompt screening improves treatment chances and assured that the hospital's oncology department is committed to mobilizing resources to support the population in the fight against breast cancer.
The National Reference Hospital's Oncology Unit reiterated the importance of prevention and access to care in the fight against breast cancer. During Octobre Rose, the message remains crucial: getting informed, consulting promptly in case of suspicious symptoms, and promoting early screening to improve treatment and survival chances.
The event is particularly significant in Chad, where access to healthcare services remains limited for many women. By providing free screenings and education, the hospital aims to bridge this gap and encourage women to take proactive steps in monitoring their health.
The hospital's initiative has been recognized as a vital step towards reducing the impact of breast cancer in Chad. By promoting early detection and providing accessible screening services, the hospital hopes to contribute to a reduction in breast cancer-related mortality rates in the country.
Key points
- Chad's National Reference Hospital holds free breast cancer screening event
- Event aims to promote early detection and provide accessible screening services
- Hospital's initiative seeks to reduce breast cancer-related mortality rates in Chad
