Member of Parliament for Ngami, Philemon Aaron has encouraged men to regularly screen for breast cancer as the disease also affects them.
Aaron made the call during the Pink Umbrella Walk held recently in Gumare village. The walk was organised by the Okavango District leadership to mark the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It also aimed at celebrating Cancer survivors and fighters while raising awareness about the disease.
Although rare but men too are at risk of breast cancer hence the call for them to visit the hospital whenever they see some unusual signs in their breast.
Male breast cancer forms in the small amount of breast tissue men have, with a painless lump under the nipple being the most common symptom.
Other signs include nipple discharge, changes in the nipple’s shape or appearance, skin changes on the breast like redness or dimpling, and a lump in the armpit. The most common treatment is surgery, typically a modified radical mastectomy.
The MP encouraged both men and women to do monthly self-examinations of their breasts and to immediately consult a doctor if they notice anything unusual, such as lumps, pain, or discharge.
“Although most people think breast cancer only affects women, men can get it too,” he added. Because of this, he called for more awareness campaigns that also include boys and men. He said other types of cancer, like prostate cancer, are also killing many men in Botswana due to lack of education and late screening.
Aaron urged the public to take advantage of free health checks offered at clinics and hospitals, and to prioritize their health before it’s too late. He also applauded those who took part in the Pink Umbrella Walk for helping to spread awareness and support those battling the disease.
“The fight against cancer is not just for patients, it’s a community effort,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Okavango District Council’s Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Lekonne Masuku, appreciated the men who wore pink in honour of the day’s dress code. He said it was encouraging to see such unity and support from men, noting that it shows togetherness and shared commitment to the same commemoration.
Breast cancer continues to be a growing health problem in Botswana, with many people affected every year. Still home, breast cancer also is ranked among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, followed closely by cervical cancer.
