The Mpumalanga Department of Health has successfully concluded Breast Cancer Month by training OTLs(Out Reach Team Leaders) across the province.
The training, conducted in collaboration with the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), reportedly aims to equip OTLs with the knowledge and skills to identify potential warning signs of various types of cancer, including cervical, breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.
The Department said all OTLs in the three districts of Mpumalanga were covered by the training.
“ The training objective is mainly to create a powerful, frontline force against cancer to ease early detection, improve lives of women and men, and ultimately reduce the overall cancer burden in the province,” said the Department.
Caption: OTLs, Health Department offcials and CANSA representatives
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is commemorated in October in South Africa, also known as “Pink Month”.
The month-long awareness campaign focuses on promoting early detection methods, such as self-examinations and mammograms, and highlighting the importance of treatment for better prognosis.
This initiative reportedly aims to educate the public about breast cancer, encourage screenings, and support those affected by the disease.
In South Africa, organisations, both public and private, come together to raise awareness and promote early detection.
By doing so, they hope to improve treatment outcomes and ultimately reduce the mortality rate associated with breast cancer.
“ The trusted relationship between OTLs and communities will assist the department to demystify cancer, address cultural myths and stigma associated with the disease,” said the Department.
