October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Teranga Global Bridge is joining the Pink October movement. At TGB, caring for women also means caring for their health. Caught early, breast cancer is far more treatable.
This month, we invite every woman in our community to take a moment for herself, and to encourage her mother, sister, daughter and friends to do the same. Let's talk about it: with family, among sisters, among friends, in our associations.
Why it matters
- Worldwide: about 1 in 20 women will develop breast cancer before age 75. In 2024 there were about 2.4 million new cases and 694,000 deaths.
- In the United States: about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.
- In Africa: about 44 out of every 100 people diagnosed die of the disease, the highest rate in the world, often because of late diagnosis and limited access to care.
- In Senegal: breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with about 2,220 new cases and more than 1,300 deaths each year.
Know the signs
See a doctor right away if you notice any of these changes:
- A new lump in the breast or under the arm
- A change in the size or shape of the breast
- Skin that dimples, reddens or thickens
- A change in the nipple or unusual discharge
- Pain in one spot of the breast that doesn't go away
Most of these changes are not cancer, but only a health professional can tell.
Steps that count
- Know your breasts. Look at them and feel them regularly so you notice any change.
- Get a mammogram. In the United States, women aged 40 to 74 are advised to have one every two years. If your mother, sister or daughter has had breast cancer, talk to your doctor: earlier screening may be recommended. A mammogram takes only a few minutes and can save a life.
- Men can be affected too, although it is rare.
Where to get screened
In the United States: the CDC's federal program (NBCCEDP) offers free or low-cost screening to women aged 40 to 64 who are uninsured, underinsured or on a low income. Find your state's program.
If you have questions, the American Cancer Society runs a 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345.
In Senegal: the Senegalese League Against Cancer (LISCA) holds screening consultations every October at its Dakar headquarters, along with campaigns in the regions. You can also go to your nearest health center or health post. Official information: Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene.
Elsewhere in the world: talk to your doctor or your local health center.
Wear the pink ribbon
Throughout October, wear a pink ribbon to show your support for women affected by breast cancer and for their families. Wear it with pride, and use it as a reason to talk about screening with the people around you.
One simple step
Share this message with a woman you love.
Take care of yourself. Talk about it. Get screened.
This information is provided for awareness and does not replace advice from a health professional.