‘Difference between life and death’: First Lady urges early screening for breast cancer

First Lady Sajidha Mohamed urged women to do early screening for breast cancer on Thursday, warning that it may be the difference between life and death.

She made the remarks during the inauguration of the 5th annual Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium at Hotel Jen on Thursday.

In her speech, Sajidha said that for women, breast cancer is not just a statistic or a distant possibility, it’s a devastating reality that strikes with little warning and leaves a lasting impact on those it touches.

She noted that breast cancer, which is the most common type of cancer among women, is on the rise in the Maldives.

“This is a reality we cannot afford to ignore. And with that truth comes responsibility to take immediate and targeted action for early detection and treatment, and to craft policies that will curb its spread,” she said.

Sajidha said that early detention is the best defense against breast cancer.

“It is the difference between life and death for so many,” she said.

She said that it is imperative that women take proactive to safeguard their health, stressing the importance of building breast cancer awareness and increasing accessibility to early detection and treatment facilities.

She urged women, especially those above the age of 40, to do monthly breast self-exams and schedule regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.

“I call upon all women, particularly those above the age of 40 years, to do a mammogram at the earliest if you have not done one recently. In between screenings, monthly self-examinations at home are a proactive step we can individually take for early detection,” she said.

She said that the Maldives now has a diverse range of cancer treatment options available, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy and hormone therapy.

“I’m pleased to know that chemotherapy is now offered by many hospitals across the country - milestone for increasing accessibility to treatment across the country,” she said.

Sajidha said that research shows that healthy lifestyle choices such staying active, a nutritious diet, abstaining from tobacco smoking and other substance abuse play a significant role in prevention and sure of breast cancer.

“Adopting such habits when we are young and well may be effective preventative measures,” she said.

Sajidha also addressed the stigma surrounding discussions on breast cancer, which she said reflects broader cultural taboos around discussing women’s health issues.

The symposium brought together healthcare professionals and experts to discuss key aspects of breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and patient care.