BREAST CANCER: Mulago warns men on increasing cases
Dr Richard Mugahi, the Commissioner Reproductive Health speaking to Breast Cancer survivors at the camp. PHOTO URN
KAMPALA, UGANDA | THE INDEPENDENT | Specialists at Mulago National Referral Hospital have warned men to seek screening for breast cancer, as there has been a notable rise in the number of cases diagnosed at advanced stages.
Speaking on Wednesday during the ongoing radiology health camp at the hospital, Dr. Kintu Luwaga, a Consultant Surgeon who heads the Breast Surgery Unit, stated that while previous statistics indicated that only one percent of breast cancer cases were men, they are now seeing up to four percent of new cases involving male patients.
Dr. Luwaga showcased several images of male breast cancer cases they have received, noting that the majority of these patients come in when the disease is too advanced to treat successfully.
He explained that while there is no straightforward reason for the increase in breast cancer among men, environmental factors and sedentary lifestyles may be contributing. Alarmingly, even healthcare workers—who should be well-informed—are not prioritizing screening for themselves.
The week-long awareness event at the specialized facility is particularly targeting caregivers. According to Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, the Executive Director, they have found that health workers often neglect their own health while caring for others, which is why this free camp prioritizes their needs.
However, of the 211 individuals who have shown up for screening so far, only one is male. Ninety-four clients were seen on Monday, and 117 were screened on Tuesday using either ultrasound scans or mammography machines.
Dr. Byanyima expressed concern over the low male participation, saying, “The fact that only one male embraced the exercise is telling and a great concern considering the high and rising burden of breast cancer.”
As doctors encourage more men to embrace screening, it is alarming that an entire country of over 46 million Ugandans has just twenty mammography machines. This concern was raised with Dr. Richard Mugahi, the Commissioner for Reproductive and Child Health in the Ministry of Health, who was representing the Permanent Secretary. He acknowledged the shortages but emphasized that services like scans should be included in the healthcare package.
Dr. Luwaga emphasized that mammography is vital for early detection, but due to shortages, it is often used later in the diagnostic process. He stated that while this service is available at Mulago, it is underutilized.
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