SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – As October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, concludes, the Collective Prevention Service (CPS), a department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, reminds the public that awareness and prevention efforts must be a year-round commitment.
While the pink ribbons and campaigns of October serve as a vital reminder to prioritize women’s health, the fight against breast cancer requires continuous diligence, screening, and timely medical consultation.
Breast cancer remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide.
Early detection dramatically increases treatment success rates and saves lives.
CPS encourages every woman to make self-examinations a routine practice and to consult her physician about scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms—especially those over the age of 40 or those with a family history of the disease.
Do not wait for the next awareness campaign; reach out to your healthcare provider today to discuss your screening timeline.
CPS stands ready to support community initiatives and educate the public on preventative health measures to ensure a healthier future for all residents.
CPS says creating awareness about breast cancer is part of CPS’s annual calendar of health observances.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumors. If left unchecked, the tumors can spread throughout the body and become fatal.
Breast cancer cells begin inside the milk ducts and/or the milk-producing lobules of the breast. The earliest form (in situ) is not life-threatening and can be detected in early stages. Cancer cells can spread into nearby breast tissue (invasion). This creates tumors that cause lumps or thickening.
Invasive cancers can spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs (metastasize). Metastasis can be life-threatening and fatal.
Treatment is based on the person, the type of cancer and its spread. Treatment combines surgery, radiation therapy and medications.
Effective interventions for early and timely diagnosis linked to comprehensive treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care are essential to reduce the burden of breast cancer and to achieve and maintain optimal functioning and well-being. Contact your physician to discuss your options.
