Harasta holds breast cancer awareness session to promote early detection

Damascus, Oct. 21 (SANA)  The Harasta Health District in Damascus countryside, in cooperation with Ghiras Association, held an awareness lecture on Tuesday on breast cancer prevention, early detection and treatment as part of Pink October activities.

Promoting early detection
 
Damascus countryside Health Director Dr. Tawfiq Hassaba told SANA that the event was part of activities organized by the Health Ministry during Pink October in coordination with the Harasta Health District, Ghiras Association and the local community.
 
The initiative aims to raise awareness of the importance of early detection and guide women on the steps to take if they notice symptoms that require medical examination, Hassaba said.
 
He added that early detection improves the chances of recovery and survival, helps reduce potential complications and lowers the costs of follow-up treatment. The campaign also includes monitoring cases reported to health centers, following up on the measures taken, referring patients to hospitals and ensuring they complete treatment when necessary.
 
Ghiras Association’s health programs
 
Ghiras Association Administrative Director Mona Naamo said the organization implements health programs, particularly those focused on women and children, through eight permanent centers and six mobile teams operating in Damascus countryside and Quneitra.
 
The association raises awareness of breast cancer screening throughout the year, intensifying lectures and guidance activities in October to highlight the role of early detection in improving recovery rates and treatment outcomes, she said.

Specialized teams provide guidance
 
Harasta Health District Director Dr. Louay Ibrahim told SANA that women had received examinations at the district’s health centers, where specialist doctors and midwives conducted the necessary checks and provided guidance on early detection and the need for mammography based on medical assessment.
 
The event also involved doctors specializing in breast cancer prevention and early detection, alongside health district staff who provided women with information and advice, Ibrahim said. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with Ghiras Association and the local community in ensuring the success of health awareness activities and maximizing their benefits.
 
October is observed annually as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with campaigns encouraging women to undergo regular screening and seek early medical assessment to improve treatment outcomes.
 
The Health Ministry launched its national early breast cancer detection campaign on Oct. 7 under the slogan “Earlier Screening, Greater Hope.” The campaign aims to raise awareness of regular screening and expand access to detection, diagnosis and treatment services.