Breaking Myths: Men Urged to Get Screened for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer awareness campaigns are often seen as targeting women alone, but there’s a growing push to challenge this misconception. Men too, though rarely, can be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Cimas Health Group chief executive officer, Vuli Ndlovu, recently emphasized the importance of men getting screened for breast cancer. This call was made during Cimas’ Pink-Tober Breast Cancer Breakfast Meeting in Harare, marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Many still believe that breast cancer is solely a women’s issue. This outdated belief leads to late diagnoses among men, which could be deadly. Early detection is crucial for both genders.

According to Ndlovu, while male breast cancer is rare, older men are especially vulnerable. Regular health check-ups can lead to early detection, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

The Pink-Tober event also brought together breast cancer survivors. These brave individuals shared their personal experiences, highlighting the power of early diagnosis. It’s a reminder that this disease affects not only women but men too.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed globally in October, aims to increase knowledge about this life-threatening illness. Across the globe, millions of people come together to push for better education, prevention, and treatment options.

Oncologist Webster Kadzatsa, the event’s guest speaker, discussed the significance of the month’s theme: “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone.” It’s a rallying call to support everyone, including men, in this fight against cancer.

Cimas Health Group, one of Zimbabwe’s largest health insurance providers, offers free breast cancer screenings to its members. Ndlovu reiterated that these services are available year-round, not just during October.

He noted that early detection is not just a month-long campaign but a continuous priority for Cimas. The medical aid provider is also offering free screenings at Blue Zone facilities across the country.

Cancer treatment can be costly, but Cimas members who test positive may benefit from coverage. This depends on their health plan and how long they’ve been members. Cimas remains committed to offering comprehensive support.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. With 2.3 million new cases annually, it makes up a significant portion of global cancer diagnoses.

Although the disease is more common in women, it still affects men. Breast cancer accounts for 25% of all cancers in women and remains a substantial cause of cancer deaths globally, particularly in low-resource areas.

WHO’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative, launched in 2021, aims to reduce breast cancer mortality by 2.5% annually until 2040. This reduction could save 2.5 million lives if these goals are achieved.

The initiative focuses on three major pillars: promoting early detection, ensuring timely diagnosis, and improving overall breast cancer management. This holistic approach aims to tackle the disease from multiple fronts.

Despite these global efforts, many still avoid getting screened. WHO reports that barriers like low health literacy and insufficient access to services contribute to high rates of late-stage diagnosis, particularly in lower-income regions.

In Zimbabwe, awareness about male breast cancer remains low. Campaigns are slowly shifting focus to include men in their messaging. Cimas Health Group is at the forefront, making health services more accessible for everyone, regardless of gender.

Breast cancer may be most associated with women, but men need to be vigilant as well. Routine check-ups can save lives by catching cancer early. Misconceptions must be challenged for progress to continue.

While Cimas leads the charge in Zimbabwe, the global fight against breast cancer demands more participation from men. They must recognize the risk and take steps to protect their health just as women do.

October’s awareness campaigns highlight this urgent need. But breast cancer awareness must be a year-round effort, for everyone.

The Zim Bulletin