Health Authorities Emphasize Early Detection as Key to Saving Lives
Kigali, Rwanda, A nationwide health campaign aimed at increasing awareness and early detection of cervical and breast cancer has expanded to Nyarugenge District, encouraging women to undergo screening even when they have no visible symptoms.
The initiative, launched last year in partnership with the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), began in Bugesera and Kicukiro districts and is now reaching more communities in the capital city of Kigali. Health officials say the campaign focuses on informing the public that these cancers can develop silently without pain or noticeable warning signs.
Residents are being encouraged to visit their nearest health centers or seek screening services at Muhima Hospital and Nyarugenge District Hospital, where medical professionals are offering testing, guidance, and treatment services when necessary.
The awareness and screening campaign will continue throughout the entire month of March.
Silent Threat: Understanding Cervical and Breast Cancer
Health experts warn that cervical and breast cancer often develop slowly and may not cause symptoms in their early stages. As a result, many patients only discover the disease when it has already advanced.
Cervical cancer mainly affects the lower part of the uterus, known as the cervix. It is primarily caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can be transmitted through sexual contact.
Breast cancer, on the other hand, develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in breast tissue. While the exact cause varies, several factors may increase the risk, including genetic mutations, hormonal influences, family history, and lifestyle factors such as obesity or lack of physical activity.
According to global health experts, these cancers remain among the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, but early detection significantly improves survival rates.
Importance of Early Screening
Health authorities stress that regular screening is one of the most effective ways to detect cancer early, often before symptoms appear.
For cervical cancer, screening methods include Pap smear tests and HPV testing, which help identify abnormal cells in the cervix before they become cancerous.
Breast cancer screening commonly involves physical examinations by healthcare professionals and imaging tests such as mammography, which can detect tumors that may be too small to feel.Early diagnosis allows doctors to begin treatment sooner, greatly increasing the likelihood of recovery.
Treatment Options Available
Medical professionals say treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.
For cervical cancer, treatment options may include surgery to remove abnormal tissue, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these methods. In the early stages, precancerous cells can sometimes be removed before they develop into cancer.
Breast cancer treatment may involve surgery to remove tumors, chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or targeted drug treatments. When detected early, many patients respond well to treatment and can live long, healthy lives.
