As Saint Lucia observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is implementing creative strategies to sensitize the public on the importance of prevention and early cancer detection.

Breast cancer continues to be one of the most dominant illnesses among women today, but affects both men and women.

As part of cancer awareness activities, cancer patient Dr. Vasantha Chase took the opportunity to encourage men and women to get tested regularly, as early detection provides the best protection.

“This has been a journey with a number of challenges and I now feel the need to share my story with other women to make sure that they always do the necessary screening. If breast cancer is discovered, it is not a death toll. You can work very closely with your surgeon, your oncologist and other cancer care providers to come out of it stronger than you went into it.”

Dr. Chase stressed on the importance of conducting periodical health examinations.

“Many women that I have been talking to are concerned or afraid of the pain that the mammogram brings but it is very brief and can save your life. I want to impress upon all women, especially those who are over 40, to have regular mammograms and to perform self-examinations. Your doctor can instruct you and there are YouTube videos that show you how.

“I had an examination in September. I found what I call a seed in October. So even with regular examinations I did not know that something was happening below the surface until I felt it, so I really implore all women to take care of themselves.”

Along with mammograms and self-examinations, Dr. Chase said there are other risk factors.

“Doctors will advise you to curb your drinking, to exercise regularly, and to be very careful of the kinds of foods that you eat. How we control the consumption of sugar is very important.”

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2018 is being observed during the month of October, under the theme “Be a Breast Friend: Early Detection for Your Protection.”