Breast cancer is one of the most common noncommunicable diseases in the world. The main cause of a high mortality rate is late diagnosis. Traditionally, Tbilisi State Medical University joins the “Pink October” breast cancer awareness campaign to inform the public about the need for early detection of breast cancer symptoms, regular self-examinations and screening studies. On October 12, Tbilisi State Medical University organized a meeting to discuss the issue: "Let's beat breast cancer together". The event was organized by National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (NCDC), Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia, the Women's Health Center, National Screening Center, TSMU Students and Alumni Relations and Career Development Service and Student Self-Government. The core message of the meeting was the call to participate in breast cancer screening programs. The field specialists Irma Zavradashvili member of the Health Care and Social Issues and Human Rights and Civil Integration Committees and Nino Tsilosani, Chair of the Committee on Agrarian Issues and member of the EU Integration Committee spoke about essential meaning of early detection and screening of the disease. Moreover, the TSMU students were informed about state funding programs and screening centers located in Georgia.
It is roughly estimated that 70% screening rate is associated with 30% lower breast cancer mortality. Thus, early diagnosis is the best way to prevent cancer.
“The aim of the campaign is to enhance breast cancer preventive activities as the guarantee of not only treatment but also for improved life quality. Timely diagnosis decreases costs in the healthcare system and ensures the well-being of the population. The students of medical universities are even more responsible to raise society’s awareness about the issue and encourage preventive measures as the guarantee of saving people’s lives”- said Irma Zavradashvili, a member of the Parliament of Georgia.
The event was structured in panel discussion format. The TSMU students expressed their ideas regarding the ongoing program and confirmed their desire to be actively involved in the campaign.
