Breast Cancer Awareness Day

In alignment with the Ministry of Health‘s ‘Pink October‘ campaign, and in line with the ministry’s slogan, “Don’t hesitate; your screening brings safety and peace of mind,” NABD-BC2 hosted an informative awareness event on Saturday, October 12, 2024, focusing on the vital role of early detection, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer.

The event began with a welcoming speech from Ms. Ikram Eseghir, President of NABD-BC2, who introduced the association and outlined its goals. She emphasized the association’s role as a civil society actor in supporting and consolidating the efforts of the Ministry of Health in raising awareness about breast cancer, one of the most widespread and deadly cancers. For the past two years, NABD-BC2 has been committed to advocacy and amplifying the voices of breast cancer patients. Ms. Eseghir also expressed gratitude to the association members, attendees, and volunteer doctors, and thanked Novartis for sponsoring the event, as well as Dar Raidat for hosting it.

The first guest speaker, Dr. Houda Chahdi, a former doctor at the Reproductive Health Reference Center Lalla Salma in Kenitra, gave an enlightening presentation on the importance of early detection and the symptoms that should not be ignored. She stressed that early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes and underscored the critical role of the Reproductive Health Reference Center, which provides free initial screenings. Additionally, Dr. Houda Chahdi provided statistics highlighting that 1 in 8 women is affected, with 650,000 breast cancer cases identified.

Dr. Mariam Mahtate, a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics, highlighted the risk factors for breast cancer, including genetic, physical, and hormonal influences. She discussed lifestyle choices, emphasizing the importance of a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Dr. Mahtate provided several recommendations to help prevent cancer and explained that women over 50 are at a higher risk, while hereditary factors can be a concern for those under 35.

Next, Dr. Asmae Touil, an oncologist and radiation therapy specialist, delivered a detailed overview of breast cancer treatments, focusing on the concept of personalized cancer care. She emphasized that breast cancer has many types and subtypes, each requiring a tailored treatment plan. Dr. Touil explained that there is no one-size-fits-all approach; each patient’s journey is unique, and treatment protocols are specifically designed to suit individual cases.

The event concluded with a Q&A session, where the audience actively engaged with the expert speakers, gaining further insights into breast cancer awareness and treatment. Following the discussion, attendees gathered for a tea session, providing a valuable networking opportunity for all participants.

NABD-BC2 extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Houda Chahdi, Dr. Mariam Mahtate, and Dr. Asmae Touil for their invaluable contributions, which provided critical insights and reassurance to attendees. We also thank our sponsor, Novartis, along with the dedicated coordinators, volunteers, and board members whose efforts made this awareness event a success.

NABD-BC2; let your voice be heard!