Amal Muhammad Amin
Every October, the streets are decorated with pink, a symbol of hope and strength in the face of one of the most common diseases among women – breast cancer. This disease does not choose age or social class, but it is also not a death sentence. Rather, it can be defeated if we possess awareness and will. Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women globally and in the Arab world. It occurs as a result of abnormal growth in breast cells that may lead to the formation of malignant tumors. Its danger lies in its delayed detection, as many women neglect regular examination, which leads to the disease being discovered in advanced stages when the chances of treatment and recovery are reduced.
The affected person is affected not only physically, but also psychologically and socially, as she lives in a state of fear and anxiety, and may feel the loss of part of her femininity or identity, which requires emotional and humanitarian support from the family and society alike.
The greatest treatment in awareness is the most powerful weapon against the disease. Prevention begins with knowledge. Every woman must realize that early screening is a lifeline, and that detecting a tumor in its early stages increases the chances of recovery to more than 95%.
Prevention methods include the following:
– Monthly breast self-examination starting at the age of twenty.
– Clinical examination by a doctor once a year after the age of thirty.
– Performing regular mammograms after the age of forty.
– Follow a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcoholic beverages.
The media, schools, and health institutions must also play a pivotal role in spreading awareness, through awareness campaigns, seminars, and providing free or low-cost examination centers.
There are many stories of the struggle against the disease. Behind every pink ribbon, there is the story of a woman who resisted fear, defied pain, and smiled despite everything.
Yes, breast cancer is a word that shakes the heart, but it does not defeat the soul. The shock may come suddenly… as a result of an analysis or examination that a woman did not expect while she was in the prime of her life. But the truth we should all embrace is that breast cancer can be cured — if we catch it in time. The most dangerous thing this disease does is not to the body, but to the fear it instills within the soul.
Therefore, the first step of treatment begins with awareness, not with medicine. Early screening…love of life, not fear of it.
My beautiful lady, examination is not a luxury, and it is not something that can be “postponed until tomorrow.” It is your security, your right, and a love letter from you to yourself, to your children, to those who love you. Just five minutes each month for self-examination, and an annual visit to the doctor, may save years of suffering and return you to the embrace of life with strength and confidence.
* How do you examine yourself?
Here are simple steps you can do at home once a month after your period ends:
– Stand in front of a mirror and notice the shape of your breasts — is there any change in size, color, or shape?
– Raise your arms up and check if there is any swelling or change in the skin or nipple.
– Use your fingertips to feel the breast with light circular movements from the outside to the inside.
– Feel the armpits and upper chest area for any small lump or hardness.
– If you notice any abnormal change (lump, discharge, persistent pain, change in color or shape), go to the doctor immediately.
* Free examination…a chance for life:
In our Arab countries, there are many national initiatives that provide free early screening for breast cancer through government hospitals and health centers.
You can easily book an appointment via:
– The Ministry of Health in your country or its official applications.
– Women’s associations and pink initiatives in your city.
– Mobile clinics that visit residential areas during the month of October.
Do not hesitate to ask or come forward – examination is life, there is no shame or fear. Be the first to spread awareness among your friends and sisters, because perhaps a word from you will save a life. Breast cancer is not the end of the road, but rather the beginning of a new awareness of the importance of our health and life. Let us turn fear into motivation, silence into a voice of awareness, and pink into a slogan of love and support. Let us make every woman who knows, examines and faces — a woman victorious in life.
* A message to every woman who fights:
To the one who lost her hair, but did not lose her pride. To those who entered the treatment room with a smile despite the pain. To the one who embraced her children and said: “I will recover for you.” You are not just a patient. You are a fighter. Your heart is stronger than a tumor, your soul is purer than fear, and your smile is more beautiful than every scar. Know that healing is possible, and that you are not alone. There are those who preceded you in battle, and there are those who draw hope from you today.
O woman of this world, give yourself time to take care of her, do not wait for danger to knock on the door. Getting tested doesn’t mean you’re afraid, it means you love yourself enough to protect yourself. And for everyone who has overcome the disease, or is still fighting it. You are a role model, you are a light, you are a hope for every woman who hears your story. Always remember: Pink is not a color.. it is life.
