Congo/ Jane-Viale IHC: staff sensitized to breast and cervical cancers

Cancer statistics in the Congo are worrying, with six hundred new cases of breast cancer every year in Brazzaville and one hundred and eighty deaths from cervical cancer. Thanks to the initiative of the Tabita Allégresse Foundation, an awareness campaign against these diseases was launched on March 23, at the Jane-Viale Integrated Health Center (CSI), in the fifth arrondissement, Ouenzé.

Pr Judith Nsondé Malanda was on hand to raise awareness among the nursing staff of the Jane-Viale IHC and local women and girls of the risks associated with breast and cervical cancer. Midwives and gynecologists are the first target of this health campaign, since they are in direct and permanent contact with women who come for natal consultations. They must be at the forefront of the fight against breast and cervical cancer.

In her message, oncologist Judith Nsondé Malanda detailed the characteristics of each disease. Breast cancer is an abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the mammary gland, which can be recognized by the appearance of a nodule in the breast, accompanied by hard lymph nodes in the armpit, as well as skin changes on the breast and nipple. According to the specialist, the breast may gradually become deformed and ulcerated, sometimes resulting in nipple discharge on one side only. This tumor is one of the most common among women in Brazzaville.

It is caused by a number of risk factors. She cited multiparity, first pregnancy after the age of 30; a history of benign illnesses; lack of sporting activity; women who have never breastfed; alcoholism and consumption of animal fats. Pr Judith Nsondé Malanda called on women to visit the centers open in Brazzaville, notably the Talangaï hospitalMakélékélé hospital and the military hospital, to be screened for signs of the disease.

She also stressed the signs of cervical cancer, adding that it is caused by the human papilloma virus. It manifests itself through persistent, poorly treated genital infections, a foul genital discharge sometimes tinged with blood, and pelvic pain. The HPV vaccine is available for children aged 0 to 8. " For the elderly, regular screening is essential to prevent the disease. Women are encouraged to perform breast self-examination at least once a month. This will enable the disease to be detected early and treated quickly ," stressed Judith Nsondé Malanda, responding to participants' concerns.

Lydie Léonce Ndongo's Tabita allégresse foundation is the main partner of the National Cancer Control Program. " Breast and cervical cancer: be informed" is the theme of this month's campaign. The Foundation will continue to work to raise awareness of cancer and provide access to treatment for sufferers. "Women' s rights are also health rights. My foundation and I work on a daily basis in the fight against cancer, raising public awareness of the different forms of cancer," reiterated Lydie Léonce Ndongo.

Source: www.adiac-congo.com/