First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has underscored the crucial importance of women over the age of 40, to undergo mammogram screenings for breast cancer at their earliest convenience. She made the statement during the inaugural event for the Breast Cancer Awareness 5th Annual Symposium, as part of national efforts to raise awareness and promote early detection of breast cancer. The symposium aims to increase awareness on breast cancer and discuss key aspects of breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and patient care.
Speaking at the inaugural event, First Lady Sajidha expressed concern over the increasing number of individuals being diagnosed with breast cancer. The first lady stated that although this type of cancer is dangerous as women have to still endure its effect after recovery.
In her address, First Lady Sajidha emphasised the importance of a multi-faceted approach to breast cancer, combining medical expertise, psychological support, and public engagement to improve awareness and patient care. She highlighted the need for a collaborative effort in tackling breast cancer, promoting early detection and comprehensive care, urging women above the age of 40 to do mammograms and self-examinations for early detection.
Furthermore, First Lady Sajidha noted the availability of chemotherapy across many regional hospitals in the country; a milestone in increasing accessibility to treatment. She commended Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) for the dedicated efforts to tackle breast cancer in the Maldives, and Cancer Society for their efforts to break the stigma surrounding breast cancer and offer evidence-based information.
The government has been exerting several efforts to reduce the number of breast cancer patients in the Maldives. Under these efforts, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided to implement a ban on vape, a product which significantly increases the risk of getting various types of cancer.