Under the Slogan "One Action, One Screening, One Life," ATAMCS Successfully Mobilizes 300 Women for Breast Cancer Awareness
The Tunisian Association for Breast Cancer Assistance (ATAMCS) has successfully mobilized 300 women today at the French Institute of Tunisia (IFT) to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and prevention of breast cancer. According to the association's treasurer, Mrs. Abir Ben Jannet, "If the disease is diagnosed early, the chances of recovery can reach up to 90%." This is provided that the diagnostic process is followed to the letter.
Dr. Khaled Rahal Evaluates the Mobilization of Tunisian Women
We asked Dr. Khaled Rahal, a cancer surgeon and president of ATAMCS, to evaluate the mobilization of Tunisian women from all regions who came to be screened for breast cancer. Dr. Rahal presented the results of the voluntary action day held yesterday at the IFT, emphasizing the need for early prevention and presenting the latest developments in the disease in Tunisia. He shared his impressions: "The mobilization is very important. There is a significant influx of women from the early hours of the event, which shows the interest that Tunisian women have in their health, particularly in the field of breast cancer prevention. For several years, we have been working on the theme of breast cancer prevention because it is through this that we will preserve the health of Tunisian women, as we know that in terms of cancer, the earlier the diagnosis, the higher the recovery rates."
Prevention and Early Detection
Dr. Rahal explained that prevention consists of three main aspects: mammography, self-examination, and clinical examination. "Every woman over 50 should have a mammogram and repeat it periodically every two years. The second aspect of prevention is self-examination, learning to examine one's breasts once a month, which allows for early detection of any anomalies. The third aspect is clinical examination, where women should have their breasts examined by their doctor during any consultation." By following these three aspects, a significant part of early diagnosis and detection of breast cancer can be ensured.
Increase in Breast Cancer Cases
When asked if the number of breast cancer cases, particularly among women, is increasing compared to previous years, Dr. Rahal replied, "Absolutely, unfortunately, new cancer cases are increasing every year. This is a global phenomenon, and Tunisia is no exception. Currently, we have around 4,000 to 4,500 new breast cancer cases in Tunisia, and according to forecasts, by 2030, we will reach 6,000 new cases."
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
Dr. Rahal briefly discussed the risk factors associated with breast cancer, which are multifactorial. "The main factor is age, as the risk increases with age. There is also a familial and personal aspect, where having a family history of cancer increases the risk. Additionally, there are hereditary forms of breast cancer, which account for 5-10% of cases. Environmental factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, excessive consumption of animal fat, and obesity, also increase the risk of breast cancer."
ATAMCS' Efforts and Objectives
The treasurer of ATAMCS, Mrs. Abir Ben Jannet, discussed the association's efforts and objectives. "ATAMCS is an association that was created in 2005 to assist patients with breast cancer and raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis. This day of awareness is also a day for breast cancer screening. We have been working with the French Institute for five years, and it has become a tradition for women to come and get screened every year."
Health Caravans in the Regions
Mrs. Mejda Falfoul, responsible for organizing health caravans at ATAMCS, discussed the association's efforts to raise awareness about breast cancer in different regions. "We don't just focus on the month of October. We try to stay close to the communities we work with, such as the Red Crescent in Ariana. We have also gone to Nabeul, Monastir, and other regions to raise awareness and provide screenings."
About ATAMCS
The Tunisian Association for Breast Cancer Assistance (ATAMCS) was founded in 2005 as a charitable emergency aid association. Its objectives include accompanying patients during their treatment, helping them overcome the difficulties of the disease, and providing them with the necessary support to reintegrate into their families, work, and society. ATAMCS also aims to reduce the burden of treatment costs for families and the state. The association provides material and moral support to patients, organizes periodic meetings with specialized doctors, and offers cultural and recreational activities.
