Nkurenkuru: The Nkurenkuru Private Hospital held its first-ever cancer awareness campaign on Friday under the theme "Every story is unique, every journey matters." The event started off with an awareness walk, attended by regional officials, teachers, and residents.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Doctor Linda Nangombe, a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist with expertise in infertility medicine and gynecological cancers, emphasised the importance of early detection for breast, cervical, and prostate cancers affecting the region. "Most of these cancers are easily treatable and one can be cured 100 per cent if they are screened and treated on time. We can catch the cancer at a very early stage before it has spread to other organs," she said.

Nangombe revealed that she currently attends to more than 100 patients in Kavango West only, focusing primarily on cervical cancer screening and breast examinations. For patients with abnormal results, interventions include biopsies, hysterectomies, or referrals to oncologists. She further said cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Namibian women, with cases steadily climbing in Kavango West. She noted that most cervical cancer victims are women aged between 21 and 45 due to HPV exposure through sexual activity.

Nangombe advised teenagers aged nine to 14 to get the HPV vaccination before becoming sexually active. Women above 40 should undergo mammograms for breast cancer screening, while men over 50 need prostate level screenings. Those with a family cancer history should begin screening before the age of 40.

Cancer survivor Victoria Simon from Onhuno in the Ohangwena Region shared her testimony about coping with cancer since her 2022 diagnosis, with her story of resilience and hope inspiring attendees. "When we talk to patients, not all of them understand the importance of screening due to a lack of information. That's why these awareness events are important," Nangombe explained, noting that many patients know about cancer but lack knowledge about screening procedures and service locations.

It is hoped that the campaign will become an annual event, continuing community education and healthcare worker training to reduce cancer burden through increased awareness and proactive health behavior.