Men in the country have been encouraged to go for breast cancer screening as the disease also affects them.

One of the doctors at Kamuzu Central Hospital, Dr. Thokozile Mhango, made the call on Saturday during a breast cancer awareness event organized by Starkey Center for Excellence in Lilongwe.

Dr. Mhango said breast cancer remains one of the leading types of cancer claiming many lives, hence the need to intensify awareness campaigns to help people understand and detect the disease early.

She expressed concern that inadequate awareness continues to contribute to late hospital visits, as many people are not well-informed about breast cancer.

 “Men should not ignore any unusual changes in their breasts. Breast cancer also affects men, and early screening can save lives,” said Dr. Mhango.

Dr. Mhango further disclosed that one in every eight women is diagnosed with breast cancer globally, underscoring the magnitude of the disease.

On her part, Managing Director for Starkey Center for Excellence, Omega Mulwafu, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer to encourage more people to get screened for early detection.

 “The fight against cancer requires concerted efforts, especially in sensitizing communities about the importance of early screening", Mulwafu said.

Globally, it is estimated that 2.3 million cases of breast cancer are recorded annually.