The Octobre Rose campaign, now in its 2026 edition, was officially launched in Dakar, Senegal, on September 28. This year's theme, "Agir pour la vie" (Acting for Life), emphasizes access to healthcare as breast cancer continues to significantly impact women's health in Senegal. The campaign, led by the Ligue sénégalaise contre le cancer (LISCA) and supported by the Fondation nationale Sénégal Solidaire, aims to encourage early detection and provide support to those affected by the disease.
According to Dr. Fatma Guenoune, president of LISCA, breast cancer remains the leading cancer among women in Senegal, with approximately 2,220 new cases and over 1,300 deaths recorded annually. In contrast, a decline has been observed in cervical cancer cases. These statistics underscore the need for prioritizing early detection. To achieve this, LISCA will offer free consultations at its headquarters from October 1, providing support to women with abnormalities.
A key initiative announced during the launch is the construction of a breast cancer screening center at Dalal Jamm Hospital in Guédiawaye. The Fondation nationale Sénégal Solidaire, in partnership with LISCA, is nearing completion of the center, which aims to increase access to screening services, particularly in the Dakar suburbs. First Lady Absa Faye expressed hope that the center will be operational by the end of the year.
The new screening center is expected to address the existing disparities in access to diagnosis and treatment, which are often hindered by cost, lack of information, and geographical distance. Absa Faye emphasized that fear of diagnosis and financial difficulties are significant barriers to screening. She encouraged women to overcome these fears and seek medical attention.
The Octobre Rose campaign will continue throughout October, with various activities planned, including awareness-raising events, consultations, and mobilization of healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists. The goal is to sustain the momentum and convert awareness into effective access to screening services. The upcoming launch of the Dalal Jamm center is seen as a crucial step in the fight against breast cancer in Senegal.
The campaign's impact will be closely monitored, with a focus on increasing the number of women accessing screening services. By working together, the organizers aim to reduce the burden of breast cancer on women's health in Senegal. The initiative also seeks to promote a culture of prevention and early detection.
As the Octobre Rose campaign continues, it is expected to contribute to a better understanding of breast cancer and its prevention. The concerted efforts of the authorities, healthcare professionals, and civil society organizations will be essential in achieving the campaign's objectives and improving women's health in Senegal.
Key points
- The Octobre Rose campaign aims to improve early detection and access to healthcare for breast cancer in Senegal.
- A new breast cancer screening center is being built at Dalal Jamm Hospital in Guédiawaye to increase access to screening services.
- The campaign will continue throughout October with various activities, including awareness-raising events and consultations.
