In a bid to promote breast cancer awareness and encourage early medical attention, Rina's Empower Her Foundation recently organised a free breast cancer screening exercise for women in Freetown's Mabela community. The initiative, which was part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, provided women with an opportunity to access screening services without incurring any costs. The exercise also focused on educating participants about breast cancer symptoms and the importance of seeking professional medical advice when they notice unusual changes.
The foundation's efforts are geared towards addressing challenges affecting women, with a focus on health, education, and empowerment. According to Marina Terry, founder of Rina's Empowered Her Foundation, the organisation is committed to empowering women and promoting their well-being through various initiatives. The free breast cancer screening exercise was a demonstration of the foundation's commitment to improving women's health and promoting early detection of breast cancer.
During the exercise, Dr. Kelfala Marah, a cancer doctor at Connaught Hospital, provided medical education to participants, highlighting the importance of recognising possible warning signs of breast cancer. Dr. Marah cautioned participants against assuming that a breast lump is harmless simply because it does not cause pain, and encouraged them to seek professional assessment rather than delay medical attention. The doctor's presentation emphasised the need for women to take proactive steps towards their health and well-being.
The foundation's initiative was designed to encourage women to take greater responsibility for their health and make medical checks a regular part of their healthcare routines. By providing free screening services, the foundation aimed to increase access to breast cancer detection and promote early treatment. The exercise also underscored the need for increased awareness and education about breast cancer, particularly in communities with limited access to healthcare services.
A 2026 study abstract published by the American Association for Cancer Research highlighted the barriers to early detection of breast cancer in Sierra Leone, including limited screening access, low awareness, and delayed presentation for medical care. The study's findings underscored the need for initiatives like Rina's Empower Her Foundation, which are working to address these challenges and promote breast cancer awareness and early detection.
The free breast cancer screening exercise in Mabela is part of wider efforts to promote breast cancer awareness in Sierra Leone. The Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS) and other stakeholders have been working to increase awareness and access to breast cancer screening services, particularly in underserved communities. The exercise demonstrated the importance of collaboration and partnership in promoting women's health and well-being.
The Rina's Empower Her Foundation's initiative has been well-received by the Mabela community, with women expressing appreciation for the free screening services and education provided. The foundation's efforts have also highlighted the need for continued support and investment in women's health initiatives, particularly in communities with limited access to healthcare services. The impact of the exercise will be monitored, and efforts will continue to promote breast cancer awareness and early detection in Sierra Leone.
Key points
- Rina's Empower Her Foundation provided free breast cancer screening to women in Freetown's Mabela community.
- The initiative aimed to promote early detection and awareness of breast cancer.
- The exercise was part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
