Chronicle Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Support Unit Fairbridge District Women Network in conjunction with Mpilo Central Hospital and the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe have accelerated public awareness campaigns to curb cancer and ensure preservation of lives and good health.
This joint efforts come amid revelations that 11 352 cancer cases were recorded among men and women in Bulawayo between 2013 and 2022, with women accounting for 6 786 cases during the same period.
The statistics were revealed by Mr Tongai Tapera from Mpilo Central Hospital’s Cancer Registry during a recent breast cancer awareness campaign held at Fairbridge Camp Clinic.
According to Mr Tapera, cervical cancer was the most common cancer among women, accounting for 36 percent of cases, followed by breast cancer, with 1 019 cases representing 15.5 percent.
He said breast cancer was rare among men, with 23 cases recorded during the period, but emphasised that men should not be left behind in breast cancer awareness programmes.
The data also showed that 2 745 women succumbed to cancer during the period, including 455 who died of breast cancer.
Mr Tapera said most women diagnosed with breast cancer presented at advanced stages of the disease, particularly Stages 3 and 4, highlighting the need for intensified awareness campaigns, screening and early detection to save lives.
ZRP Support Unit Fairbridge District Women Network vice-chairperson Insp Faith Sanyika said although the police were primarily known for fighting crime, the network was taking a different approach to protecting lives through breast cancer awareness.
“As ZRP officers, we are used to fighting crime on the streets, but today we are fighting a different enemy that does not carry a weapon but kills silently.
“Statistics show that many women seek treatment when the disease is already at an advanced stage due to a lack of information, fear of stigma and myths surrounding cancer,” she said.
“Through this campaign, free screening sessions and counselling will be offered, bringing specialist services to our doorstep. I urge all attendees to utilise this opportunity.”
Dr Olipha Kanjara from Mpilo Central Hospital encouraged women to regularly examine their breasts and seek professional medical assistance if they noticed any lumps or unusual changes.
“When you discover any lump or notice anything unusual, do not self-medicate but seek professional assistance. Many people delay seeking medical attention because of hearsay about alternative treatments, only to present at Stage 4, when treatment may be too late.
“Women should undergo routine check-ups, and those aged 35 and above are encouraged to have mammograms every three years,” she said.
Fairbridge Support Unit District Community Relations Officer, Assistant Inspector Angeline Mpofu, one of the key organisers of the campaign, said the initiative was in line with the ZRP’s wellness thrust.
“A healthy force is an effective force,” she said.
Breast cancer survivors also attended the campaign and shared their experiences to encourage other women to seek early diagnosis and treatment.
One of the survivors, Ms Precious Mpofu, said she was happy to work with the ZRP in raising awareness about the disease.
“As we know, October is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer. We urge people to undergo regular check-ups because early detection saves lives.
“I am living proof that cancer can be overcome. This is my eighth year since surviving breast cancer. Cancer is not a death sentence, but early treatment is important,” she said.
