Saint Lucia joins the Global Movement to Fight Breast Cancer

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs together with the rest of the world observes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and intensifies public health education to improve awareness among women of the importance of screening, the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and to understand the importance of early detection and treatment. It is anticipated that with accurate information, more women would lead healthier lifestyles to prevent breast cancer, ensure regular screening and consult medical practitioners when breast cancer is first suspected, and before the cancer is advanced. Early diagnosis is important as it is linked to effective and timely cancer treatment that requires specialized cancer care. In Saint Lucia, healthy lifestyles, regular screening and early detection are key in improving the outcome of breast cancer diagnosis. The Ministry of Health has decided to place special focus on the most prevalent type of breast cancer in country and ensure that women, men who are at risk, adolescent girls and their families are empowered to perform regular breast screening and to access the health services within their communities. In order to encourage breast cancer screening, mammography services can be accessed through any of the Primary Healthcare facilities, that is Community Wellness Centres, Polyclinics and District Hospitals. Individuals will then be guided to the St. Jude Hospital and the Millennium Heights Medical Complex to get the mammogram done at NO COST. Also, mammogram vouchers funded by the Ministry of Health will continue to be provided at outreach activities undertaken in workplaces and communities.