By Haddy Touray
As part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the University of The Gambia Medical Students’ Association (UniGMSA), through Health and Gender Ministry, on Saturday, 18th October 2025, organized a one-day breast cancer awareness and screening outreach at the Youth Monument, Westfield in Kanifing Municipality.
The initiative aimed to promote early detection, educate the public on breast cancer prevention, and provide free clinical screenings to improve community health outcomes. The event served as a platform for knowledge sharing, public sensitization, and medical support, while reinforcing the critical message – “Early Detection Saves Lives.”
Speaking at the event, UniGMSA President Mamadou B. Jallow said the program was designed to raise public awareness about breast cancer and its risk factors, educate women on regular self-breast examinations, and encourage early screening. He added that the outreach also sought to engage young people in health promotion and advocacy, and strengthen collaboration among students, health professionals, and community stakeholders in the fight against breast cancer.
“The event was meant to draw public attention, mobilize participation, and symbolize unity in the fight against breast cancer,” Jallow said. He noted that the sensitization session was highly interactive, with participants given the opportunity to ask questions and clarify misconceptions about the disease.
According to him, the free screening exercise was conducted by a dedicated team of doctors and volunteer medical students from the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) and the University of The Gambia. Participants were first registered and given counselling on self-breast examination techniques before undergoing clinical breast examinations. Those with abnormal or suspicious findings were referred to EFSTH for follow-up evaluation.
Jallow explained that the screening not only served as an important diagnostic activity but also provided an opportunity for personalized health education and empowerment. “We want women to take an active role in monitoring their breast health,” he emphasized.
A total of 52 women took part in the screening exercise. The data gathered included participants’ age distribution, marital status, parity, contraceptive use, symptoms, and clinical findings. Jallow said the results highlight the need for regular screening and continuous community health education, particularly among young women who often underestimate their risk of developing breast-related conditions.
He commended the invaluable support of various individuals and institutions that contributed to the success of the event. UniGMSA’s Health and Gender Ministry, he said, extends its appreciation to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, the Department of Surgery, and the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) for their professional guidance, medical expertise, and logistical assistance.
Special thanks were also extended to sponsors and partners, particularly Africmed and Carmou Global Properties, for their generous support and continued commitment to advancing community health in The Gambia.
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By Haddy Touray As part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the University of The Gambia Medical Students’ Association…
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