Article: Breast cancer awareness: a fight that persists in the Comoros
Breast cancer remains a taboo subject in the Comoros, but the Comorian Association Against Cancer in Women (ACCF) is fighting to change this reality. During the month of October, breast cancer awareness month, the ACCF organizes screening and awareness campaigns for hundreds of women.
Despite recent advances such as the establishment of an imaging center in a public hospital, the problems encountered on the ground remain numerous. The lack of means and healthcare infrastructure often forces patients to seek solutions abroad. This is the case of Moinafatima Charani, co-founder of the ACCF, who had to go to France for treatment.
The president of the ACCF, Zahara Abdallah, continues to fight for the Ministry of Health to take care of the sick. She calls for the opening of a chemotherapy service and the training of oncology specialists. Terminally ill patients do not have palliative care in the Comoros, which is a source of additional suffering.
Despite a health convention between Mauritius and the Comoros which allows women suffering from cancer to be treated in Mauritius, this aid remains insufficient. It is therefore essential to continue raising awareness and mobilizing the authorities to fight against this scourge.
The Comoros is joining the global Pink October movement, a month dedicated to breast cancer awareness. The ACCF organizes information stands at various events, such as the Moroni Aesthetics and Hairdressing Congress. This presence makes it possible to reach a wide audience and raise awareness among even more women of the importance of early detection.
The fight against breast cancer is a battle that persists in the Comoros, but thanks to initiatives like that of the ACCF, hope remains. It is crucial to continue to inform, screen and support women affected by this disease. Together we can make a difference and help save lives.