Donations help Breast Cancer Society promote early detection [1]
Friday, November 16, 2018 - 19:12. Updated on Friday, November 16, 2018 - 19:13.
A donation of $13,650 pa'anga was handed over to the Tonga Breast Cancer Society on Friday, November 16 to further help breast cancer awareness in Tonga.
The New Zealand High Commissioner H.E. Tiffany Babington and Liz Cowley, owner of the Waterfront Restaurant, handed over the donation, part of a total $15,650 pa'anga raised from their Pink Ribbon Survivors High Tea held on October 12.
The High Commissioner said in line with the Tonga Breast Cancer 2018 campaign theme of “Early detection saves lives” the donation will be used to further raise breast cancer awareness and increase access to screening and health care.
"One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lives. Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Tonga and cancer is one of the five leading causes of death."
Dr ‘Ana ‘Akau’ola who manages the Mammogram Unit at Vaiola Hospital said more than 30 new cases of breast cancer had been diagnosed each year over the past five years.
“Breast cancer can be detected early with a mammogram, which is available at Vaiola Hospital. We strongly encourage all women over the age of 40 to come and get free annual breast screening at the Mammogram Unit,” she said.
Christine ‘Uta’atu, Treasurer of Tonga Breast Cancer hoped to use some of the money donated to set up a program so that women from both public and private sector organisations participate annually in breast screening. “Early detection really does save lives.”
Pink October was breast cancer awareness month and the Society held ts annual campaign re-emphasizing to women the importance of seeking medical attention early, as some leave it too late.
The donation was handed over at the Mammogram Unit.
Meanwhile, other sponsors that supported the High Tea event were also acknowledged for their support.