In October, as Rwandans and the rest of the world observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, oncologists emphasise the importance of self-breast examination and early cancer screening. Detecting cancer at an early stage significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and cure. It is crucial to note that delayed or inaccessible cancer care reduces the likelihood of survival.
Rubagumya emphasised the importance of regular self-examination, specifically through visual inspection in front of a mirror. "A self-breast examination is also important. You lie down on a flat surface and use the pads of the three middle fingers to move in small circular motions, covering the whole breast and applying different levels of pressure."It is better to do the first one in front of a clinician and the subsequent ones by yourself while knowing that the initial one was normal."
"Some risk factors include age , however, in Rwanda, we see young women with breast cancer, as young as the late 20s." He said doctors recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40, but some other scientific organisations suggest age 45 or 50."We recommend starting screening earlier, often in 30s." Manirakiza said that raising awareness of breast cancer is a big task, involving patients, survivors, scientists, physicians, and general society.