The campaign Octobre Rose has entered its surgical phase at Gabon's Mouila Regional Hospital. Under the coordination of Dr. Vicky Noël Teken, a gynecologist-obstetrician, and assisted by Dr. Ondo Menié, an anesthesiologist, the medical team has started performing surgeries on patients with suspected lesions. This phase follows training and awareness-raising sessions, and is supported by the Centre-Sud Regional Health Directorate.
The campaign began with capacity-building for midwives in the Ngounié province on early detection of women's cancers. Dr. Teken emphasized the crucial role of midwives in the region, saying "In our region, the midwife is the first barrier against women's cancers." A 5km pink march was also organized, with participation from local businesses, administrations, and residents.
The medical team is now focused on the surgical phase, treating detected lesions. Dr. Teken explained that for precancerous cervical lesions, they perform conization, while for benign breast nodules, they carry out nodulectomy. Dr. Menié is responsible for anesthesia and ensuring the safety of surgical procedures.
On October 26, six patients underwent surgery, and conization sessions continued on Friday, according to the medical team. However, transporting samples for histopathological examination to Libreville poses a significant challenge, potentially slowing down the treatment process.
Despite this difficulty, Dr. Teken expressed confidence in the medical team's abilities and the support of the hospital's management. He stated, "We have a competent team, with the support of the General Director, Gildas Guy N'Dongo. There are no particular problems." Dr. Menié stressed the importance of early detection and dispelling misconceptions about women's cancers.
Two patients who underwent surgery shared their experiences. Christina Isanga Djembi, an 18-year-old student, discovered a lump in her left breast and expressed gratitude for the care received. Malvindia Tendresse also discovered a breast anomaly and was satisfied with the treatment she received during the Octobre Rose campaign in Mouila.
The campaign aims to improve women's cancer care in the region, with a focus on early detection and treatment. The medical team is working to address the challenges faced in providing these services, and patients are benefiting from the efforts made during the Octobre Rose campaign.
Key points
- The campaign Octobre Rose has entered its surgical phase at Gabon's Mouila Regional Hospital.
- The medical team is treating detected lesions, performing conization and nodulectomy procedures.
- Despite challenges, the medical team is confident in their abilities and the support of the hospital's management.
