Empowering Health – Cancer Awareness Program at Zimbabwe School of Mines
In a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to health education and empowerment, Zimbabwe School of Mines SRC recently hosted a Cancer Awareness Program aimed at raising awareness about various forms of cancer, with a special focus on breast and cervical cancer. The program, held on campus, saw an impressive turnout of students, and staff eager to learn about early detection, prevention, and the support resources available for cancer care.
The event opened with an introduction by school SRC representatives who emphasized the importance of health awareness, especially in October, globally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In alignment with this theme, various healthcare providers were invited to offer professional insights and practical support.
Service Providers Lead the Way
Healthcare professionals from local clinics and hospitals were invited to set up information booths, where attendees could ask questions, collect educational pamphlets, and engage directly with experts. Service providers provided valuable information on cancer types, risk factors, prevention methods, and the importance of early detection.
One of the highlights of the day was a Breast Cancer Awareness and Prevention Session. The session focused on both the impact of breast cancer and practical steps for early detection and prevention.
Key Takeaways from the Breast Cancer Awareness Session
Here are some of the crucial takeaways from the session:
Understanding the Importance of Regular Screening:
Attendees learned about the two primary methods for breast cancer screening: mammograms and clinical breast exams. The healthcare provider emphasized that women over 40 should have regular mammograms every one to two years, depending on their risk factors, while younger women should consider clinical exams or self-exams to build awareness of their breast health.
Self-Examination Tips:
While self-exams do not replace professional screenings, participants were taught the importance of performing regular self-examinations. Attendees learned how to check for lumps, changes in breast shape or size, unusual dimpling of the skin, or nipple discharge. The healthcare provider stressed that if any of these changes are detected, it is important to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
Awareness of Family History and Genetic Factors:
The session highlighted the significance of understanding family history in breast cancer risk. Those with close family members diagnosed with breast cancer may have a higher risk, so genetic counseling and testing, such as BRCA gene testing, were discussed as options for people with significant family history.
Lifestyle Choices to Reduce Risk:
Healthy lifestyle changes were encouraged as ways to help lower breast cancer risk. The healthcare provider discussed the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking. Attendees were advised that adopting these habits not only reduces cancer risks but also improves overall well-being.
Seeking Support and Resources:
The session also offered resources for ongoing support, including local clinics and breast cancer support organizations. Attendees received information on where to access mammogram services and learned about support groups that provide emotional and practical assistance for those impacted by breast cancer.
Empowering Students with Information and Resources
Following the lesson, participants engaged in an open Q&A session where they could seek further clarification from the medical team. The school distributed leaflets on local clinics and hospitals offering screening services and even facilitated appointments for those who expressed interest in immediate screenings.
The Cancer Awareness Program was widely praised by students and staff alike for providing both vital information and practical resources. Many expressed a newfound commitment to regular health screenings and emphasized that such initiatives bring a sense of community and responsibility to the Zimbabwe School of Mines.
In the words of one participant, “This program was an eye-opener for us. Many of us are now aware of the importance of self-examination and professional screening, and we are empowered to take proactive steps toward our health.”
The Zimbabwe School of Mines looks forward to hosting more such events in the future, aiming to build a healthier, informed community where early detection and preventive care are prioritized for all.
