BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH: WHY EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES IN KENYA

As the world marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, health experts are urging communities to pay greater attention to breast health and seek medical attention whenever unusual changes are noticed.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer globally in 2024, while about 694,000 died from the disease. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide.

In Kenya, breast cancer remains a major health concern. WHO estimates that approximately 7,243 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, with about 3,398 deaths. The high number of deaths is partly linked to delays in diagnosis and treatment, with many patients reaching health facilities when the disease is already advanced.

Breast cancer does not always begin with pain. According to WHO, people should seek medical advice when they notice unusual changes such as a new lump or thickening in the breast, changes in the size or shape of the breast, changes to the skin or nipple, or abnormal or bloody discharge from the nipple.

Not every breast lump is cancerous, but any new or unexplained change should be assessed by a qualified health professional rather than ignored or self-diagnosed.

Early detection is one of the most important messages of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. When breast cancer is identified early and linked to timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the chances of successful treatment are significantly improved.

WHO's Global Breast Cancer Initiative aims to increase the proportion of invasive breast cancers diagnosed at Stage I or II and ensure that patients receive timely diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.

However, awareness alone is not enough. Access to screening, diagnostic services, treatment, medicines and specialist care remains a challenge in many low- and middle-income countries. WHO reports that around 70% of breast cancer deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where access to early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment can be more limited.

Although breast cancer predominantly affects women, men can also develop the disease. WHO estimates that approximately 0.5% to 1% of breast cancers occur in men.

There are also several factors associated with increased risk, including increasing age, obesity, alcohol use, family history, previous radiation exposure and certain reproductive factors. However, WHO notes that approximately 80% of breast cancers occur in women without a specific risk factor other than sex and age.

This means that having no family history of breast cancer does not eliminate the possibility of developing the disease.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month provides an opportunity to move beyond wearing pink and sharing awareness messages. It is also a reminder to learn the warning signs, understand personal risk, encourage loved ones to seek medical attention when necessary and support people living with or recovering from cancer.

WHO's theme for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026, “Every story is unique, every journey matters,” highlights the different experiences of people diagnosed with breast cancer and the importance of ensuring that every patient receives timely, quality care and support.

For anyone who notices a new or unusual breast change, the message is simple: do not ignore it. Seek medical advice and get it checked.