Early detection remains critical in the fight against breast cancer, with fear, stigma and uncertainty about where to seek medical care continuing to discourage some women from going for screening.
Speaking during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Programme Administrator in the Oncology Department at Aga Khan Hospital, Saidi Shukuru, said screening was important because treatment outcomes were generally better when the disease was detected early.
His remarks come as Aga Khan Hospital, in partnership with Howden Puri Insurance Brokers, conducted a free breast cancer screening campaign on October 16, 2026, at the hospital’s Cancer Care Centre. The campaign ran from 9am to 3pm and targeted 200 people.
The initiative aimed to raise public awareness about breast cancer and highlight the importance of screening and timely medical attention.
“We want people to understand the importance of screening and avoid neglecting their health because of fear, stigma or uncertainty about where to seek medical care,” he said.
Mr Shukuru said breast cancer does no longer affect women beyond older age groups, adding that the absence of symptoms did not necessarily mean a person was free from the disease.
He encouraged women to remain aware of changes in their breasts and seek medical attention promptly if they noticed anything unusual.
“Do not wait until you develop symptoms to take action. Early detection can save lives,” he said.
Howden Puri Insurance Brokers Ltd Business Development Employee Benefits representative, Honey Mair, said the partnership reflected the importance of extending employee health initiatives beyond insurance coverage.
“Employee benefits extend beyond arranging medical insurance and managing claims. They are about understanding an organisation’s unique requirements and addressing the diverse needs of its employees through tailored solutions that provide meaningful support, enhance well-being and add value to the workforce,” she said.
Ms Mair said the screening initiative was intended to encourage women to prioritise their health through timely screening and early detection.
Meanwhile, Vivo Energy Tanzania Human Resources Manager, Margaret Msafiri, said her family experience with cancer had encouraged her to undergo regular health check-ups.
“I am one of the people who have a family history of cancer, and that has encouraged me to go for regular check-ups to understand my health,” she said.
Ms Msafiri said breast cancer screening was important in helping people understand their health status and seek medical attention when necessary.
She also encouraged people to obtain reliable information from health professionals, speak openly about cancer and adopt healthier lifestyles through balanced diets and physical exercise.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, the campaign highlights the importance of screening, timely medical attention and public awareness in addressing breast cancer.
