Heartened by progress
EACH YEAR, the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) earmarks October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During this time, the JCS takes the opportunity to heighten public consciousness about breast cancer and the options that exist in the fight against the disease and in prolonging the lives of many persons.
This year alone, approximately 385,000 women in the United Kingdom and United States of America will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Equally alarming is the likelihood that one out of every 21 Jamaican women is expected to get breast cancer. This, therefore, lends urgency to the work being done by the JCS to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and the available treatment options.
There is no doubt that the theme for this year: ‘Find it Early ... Live Longer’, represents one of the strongest antidotes in the fight against breast cancer. We are pleased at the increased focus on breast cancer awareness, particularly from corporate organisations, which have developed innovative and creative programmes to
support the work of the JCS in keeping the fight against this disease at the forefront of our minds.
We are also heartened by the growing boldness and decisive actions being taken by women in respect of their health — either through consistent screening or radical treatment to arrest the disease. We continue to urge everyone to be both selfish and caring when it comes to the subject of cancer. Be selfish and think about yourself and your personal health. But also care enough about others to encourage them to get screened and to maintain healthy lifestyles.
As we come to the end of a month of intense public education and awareness drive – from fun runs to luncheons, to marketing campaigns and other strategies – we pause to reflect and celebrate those who have encountered the disease and have risen above the fray. We also remember and salute those who were not victorious, and note the sacrifices made as we press our way towards a cure.
The JCS expresses our sincere appreciation to corporate Jamaica and other responsible citizens for the ongoing support to further increase awareness and limit the impact of breast cancer on our people and our country. EARL JARRETT
Chairman
Jamaica Cancer Society