Women in Mityana Municipality have been urged to learn about breast cancer warning signs and seek timely medical assessment, amid concerns that limited awareness may be contributing to delayed diagnosis and more difficult treatment.
Christine Nalweyiso, the women’s councillor at Mityana Central Market, said many women lacked adequate information about breast cancer and might not recognise its symptoms until the disease had advanced.
She called for stronger public awareness campaigns to help women understand the importance of early diagnosis and seek medical attention when they notice unusual changes in their breasts.
“Many women do not have enough information about breast cancer. Some may fail to recognise the warning signs until the disease has advanced. We need more awareness so that women understand the importance of early detection and seek medical attention in time,” Nalweyiso said.
Residents have also called on the government to strengthen public education and improve access to breast cancer assessment and screening services.
Richard Kyambadde, a resident of Mityana Municipality, said some women might have breast cancer without recognising the warning signs because of limited information about the disease.
He urged women to familiarise themselves with possible symptoms and seek medical attention promptly if they noticed unusual changes.
“Every woman needs adequate information about breast cancer, including its warning signs and symptoms. This knowledge can help women recognise unusual changes and seek medical attention early,” Kyambadde said.
Dr Abu Baker Sserunkuma of Balintumye Herbal Research Clinic also emphasised the importance of breast health awareness and appropriate screening.
He said women should consult qualified health workers about suitable screening options rather than waiting until they developed symptoms.
“Women should make breast health a priority and seek appropriate screening even when they feel healthy. Regular screening and timely medical assessment can help identify breast cancer early and improve treatment outcomes,” Sserunkuma said.
Possible warning signs of breast cancer include a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, changes in breast size or shape, dimpling or other skin changes, changes in the nipple, and unusual or bloody nipple discharge.
However, many breast changes are not cancerous, and early breast cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms.
Women who notice unusual breast changes should seek medical assessment without delay. They are also encouraged to discuss appropriate screening options with qualified health workers, taking into account their age, medical history and individual risk factors.
The concerns raised in Mityana highlight the need for sustained public education and accessible health services to help women recognise warning signs, obtain timely assessments and make informed decisions about their breast health.