Senegal's Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Economy, Amy Mara Dièye, has called on women to prioritize their health screenings, citing the importance of early detection and treatment. The minister made the remarks during a sensitization and screening campaign at Diamniadio, as part of the "Octobre rose" and "Novembre bleu" campaigns. The event was marked by a pedestrian walk, highlighting the need for women to take proactive steps towards their health.
Minister Dièye identified several major barriers to early screening among women, including lack of information, fear of results, financial costs, and family obligations. She emphasized that these factors often lead women to hesitate or delay seeking medical attention, which can have severe consequences. The minister encouraged women to consult a doctor as soon as they notice any unusual signs or symptoms.
The minister shared the tragic story of a woman who discovered a lump in her breast, highlighting the importance of prompt medical attention. She listed the economic and social factors that contribute to women's reluctance to undergo screenings, including concerns about the cost of medical procedures. Minister Dièye urged women to prioritize their health and seek medical attention without delay.
Minister Dièye emphasized the importance of access to diagnostic services and continuity of care, ensuring that no woman is forced to forego treatment due to financial constraints. She called on the ministry's gender cell to continue supporting and sensitizing women on the importance of screening and prevention. The minister also encouraged women to take advantage of free or low-cost screening services.
A specialist in health provided an informative session on the cellular process, metastases, and risk factors associated with breast, cervical, and prostate cancers. The session focused on symptoms, screening, and treatment options, providing women with valuable information to make informed decisions about their health.
The event was attended by women from the sector, who expressed their appreciation for the minister's efforts to raise awareness about the importance of health screenings. Minister Dièye stressed that the fight against cancer must be a continuous effort, extending beyond awareness campaigns to sustained support for patients and their families.
The "Octobre rose" and "Novembre bleu" campaigns aim to raise awareness about breast and prostate cancers, respectively. The minister's call to action underscores the need for sustained efforts to promote health screenings and prevent these diseases. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to supporting women's health and promoting early detection and treatment.
Key points
- Minister Amy Mara Dièye urges women to prioritize health screenings to ensure early detection and treatment of diseases.
