Breast cancer is a group of cancer cells (malignant tumour) that starts in the cells of breasts. Currently, there is no sufficient knowledge on the causes of breast cancer; therefore, early detection of the disease remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. When breast cancer is detected early, and if adequate diagnosis and treatment are available, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured. If detected late, however, curative treatment is often no longer an option. In such cases, palliative care to relief the suffering of patients and their families is needed.
Through the CheckMate campaign, the concerns are trying to create awareness not only amongst women, but also men. Where we can see Nayla Nayeem call upon the curiosity of the male populace on Facebook, by declaring that she’s about to reveal something. Therefore, spreading speculations all over social media like wildfire with the anticipation of something erotic is going to happen. With hundreds and thousands of pairs of eyes waiting for the day, she reveals and explains the symptoms of breast cancer and the ways to spot them in three simple steps, “Look, Touch, and Check” – encouraging everyone to be aware, especially men to be aware and supportive of their mates.
The majority of deaths (269,000) occur in low and middle income countries, where most women with breast cancer are diagnosed in later stages, mainly due to lack of awareness of early detection and barriers to health services. In Bangladesh, the number is shockingly around 20,000 every year.
It is no secret that discussions on this issue in Bangladesh are still vastly considered as taboo among many people. However, early warning signs of breast cancer may involve the discovery of a new lump or a change in the breast tissue or skin. Women should perform a self breast-exam each month, and any changes or abnormalities should be discussed with a doctor or physician.