A major campaign to promote early detection of breast cancer was launched in Mauritania's capital, Nouakchott, on October 1, 2026. The campaign, themed "Get Checked and Share the News," was inaugurated at the Vask Hotel, bringing together representatives from the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization, doctors, midwives, and partners from the health and media sectors.
The campaign aims to emphasize the importance of early detection of breast cancer, with the country's health authorities stressing that identifying the disease in its initial stages significantly increases the chances of recovery. According to the Director of Maternal and Child Health at the Ministry of Health, Jekana Moussa, the ministry is committed to combating women's cancers through training healthcare professionals, awareness-raising, early detection, and patient care.
The Ministry of Health is working to enhance coordination among various sectors and concerned entities, expanding detection services, particularly through mobile clinics, to reach women in remote areas. Moussa expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Ethar Association in awareness-raising and early detection, reaffirming the ministry's support for its initiatives and strengthened collaboration.
Participants in the campaign launch event stressed that combating cancer is a shared responsibility requiring the integration of efforts from health institutions, civil society, and the media. They underscored the significance of prevention, awareness-raising, and early detection in reducing the risks associated with the disease.
The launch event featured a presentation on the achievements of the Ethar Association in the past year, as well as displays on the campaign's objectives and the association's role in supporting those affected and promoting health awareness.
The campaign is expected to engage various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, community leaders, and the general public, in efforts to promote breast cancer awareness and encourage women to undergo regular check-ups. By doing so, the campaign aims to contribute to a reduction in breast cancer-related mortality rates in Mauritania.
Key stakeholders, including the World Health Organization, have expressed their commitment to supporting Mauritania's efforts to combat breast cancer and other health challenges. The campaign is seen as a crucial step towards improving women's health and well-being in the country.
Key points
- The campaign aims to promote early detection of breast cancer and raise awareness about the importance of regular check-ups.
- The Ministry of Health is working to enhance coordination among various sectors and concerned entities to expand detection services.
- The campaign launch event featured a presentation on the achievements of the Ethar Association in promoting breast cancer awareness and support.