New women’s facility to enhancebreast cancer screening

A new Women’s Wellness facility in Windhoek aims enhance the breast cancer screening experience.

Medical Imaging’s Dr Ryan Volker announced this during an interview on Desert Radio yesterday morning, at the start of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The radiology practice, which has been a leader in imaging services in Namibia for over 20 years, will open the facility in Windhoek tomorrow.

“We have always provided essential services such as screening, mammography and bone density testing but we realised that there was a need for an outpatient facility designed specifically for women’s wellness. This new facility offers a more welcoming and less intimidating environment compared to a hospital setting,” said Volker.

He noted that mammography remains the global standard for early detection of breast cancer, despite advances in imaging technology.

“The World Health Organisation still recommends annual mammography screening from the age of 40 onwards, or even earlier if there is a family history,” he said.

According to Volker, breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in Namibia, as well as globally, making early detection critical.

“Breast cancer is a significant risk to women’s health but the good news is that it can be treated and cured if caught early. That’s why it’s so important for women to get screened,” he said.

Volker further emphasised that the Women’s Wellness facility was designed to offer a serene, almost spa-like environment to reduce anxiety during the screening process.

The facility provides a private, comfortable space where women can receive compassionate care from professional female staff who understand their unique needs.

“We wanted to create a safe, respectful and private environment where women could feel at ease. We believe that by reducing the fear and intimidation surrounding these screenings, we can encourage more women to prioritise their health.”

According to the chief executive of the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN), Rolf Hansen, on average more than 500 Namibian women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually.

“This has resulted in it being the dominant cancer, after skin cancer, in Namibia. More than 50% of these cases originate from the northern regions of Namibia, followed by the central regions [Hardap and Khomas].”

Globally, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, with millions of cases diagnosed each year.

It ranks as a significant cause of mortality among women, emphasising the importance of early detection and intervention.

Breast cancer affects women of all ages and diverse backgrounds, highlighting the need for widespread awareness and proactive measures, he says.

EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES

Hansen emphasises that early detection is crucial for saving lives.

He says raising awareness, providing education and conducting regular screenings are vital components of CAN’s efforts, and the association conducts screening campaigns throughout the year.

“These campaigns are especially important for financially vulnerable Namibians, including those in rural areas reached through the National Cancer Outreach Programme.

“Understanding the early warning signs of breast cancer is pivotal for early detection. Regular self-examinations and awareness could make a significant difference in diagnosis and treatment,” he says.

Early detection is the cornerstone of breast cancer survival, he adds. In Namibia, healthcare providers are making strides in improving early diagnosis and treatment, with mammography units established in urban areas. In addition, mobile screening clinics visit rural communities to bring life-saving measures closer to people.

HOPE

While the battle against breast cancer in Namibia is ongoing, there is hope on the horizon, Hansen says.

Awareness is growing, early detection rates are improving and medical facilities are becoming better equipped to treat the disease, he adds.