By Grace Makawa:
Vice-President Jane Ansah has called for increased breast cancer awareness, urging women to prioritise early detection and seek medical attention when they notice unusual changes.
Ansah was speaking in Lilongwe during a fundraising event organised by Young Girls Diary to support people affected by cancer.
“Women should be encouraged to seek medical attention when they notice unusual changes rather than wait until the disease has progressed,” she said.
Ansah said the government is supporting initiatives to improve cancer services and that collaboration among stakeholders is essential in the fight against the disease.
She also challenged beliefs linking cancer to witchcraft and urged people to seek professional medical care.
Young Girls Diary president Ester Kabamba said the fundraising initiative aimed to support cancer survivors and patients while encouraging early testing.
Meanwhile, Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani’s spouse called on traditional leaders to take an active role in raising breast cancer awareness in their communities.
“Traditional leaders are close to the people and can help ensure that important health messages reach communities. We need to encourage women to take their health seriously and seek medical attention when they have concerns,” she said.
October is observed globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as Pink Month, to promote awareness of the disease and encourage early detection and treatment.
Malawi records an estimated 1,600 new breast cancer cases and 950 deaths annually, according to figures attributed to the Ministry of Health in October 2025.