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Commemoration: Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Months (1 September – 31 October 2025)

Cancer talk at Central Bank of The Gambia (CBG): Promoting positive and proactive actions for breast cancer prevention

Accurate and timely information on risk factors, along with early detection through screening, is essential for preventing breast cancer in the workplace. Our health talks on breast cancer empower employees to take proactive steps that support their long-term health and well-being.

It was our privilege to join the management and staff of the Central Bank of The Gambia (CBG) for an insightful health talk on breast cancer, delivered by our experts, Dr. Mustapha Babatunde, General Surgeon, and Dr. Safiatou Singhateh, Registrar. Doctors from Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) were also present.

The event, held on Thursday, 23 October 2025 at the CBG Head Office in Banjul, commemorated International Breast Cancer Awareness Month and promoted the global theme: “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters.” This initiative formed part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility program to foster employee well-being. More than 100 staff members attended.

Participants were presented with key facts and figures on breast cancer incidence, mortality rates, and the wider impact of the disease on families and social structures in The Gambia.

Led by Dr. Babatunde, our medical team provided an overview of the nature, development, warning signs and risk factors of breast cancer. They emphasized the importance of adopting a positive and healthy lifestyle to reduce risks, and highlighted the critical role of monthly self-breast examinations from age 21. Practical demonstrations guided participants on effective self-examination techniques, while attendees were reminded that trained doctors at BAFROW Medical Centre are available to conduct professional breast examinations for early detection.

The benefits of cancer screening through mammography were also underscored. Mammograms are strongly recommended for women aged 50 and above, when the risk of breast cancer becomes significantly higher. Our doctors explained how mammograms enable detection of cancer growth at its earliest stage—often before symptoms can be seen or felt—thereby increasing the chances of successful treatment. Female participants were encouraged to visit BAFROW Medical Centre for screening if they believe they may be at risk.

Equally committed to men’s health, our doctors highlighted the importance of promoting Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in September and urged all men aged 50 and above to undergo screening for prostate cancer.

The talks concluded with dynamic Q&A sessions, ensuring participants’ questions were addressed and the messages clearly understood. To facilitate communication, Dr. Singhateh also acted as translator for Dr. Babatunde during the event. Attendees were urged to share the knowledge gained and take proactive steps—such as mammogram screening for female and prostate specific antigen test for male—to reduce their risks.

Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials on breast and prostate cancer were displayed and distributed at the venue. Breast and prostate cancer awareness ribbons were also shared with participants.

Are you due for a mammogram screening?

Phone us on the numbers below, send an email or click on the link to find out more.

More from this event

GALLERY - Key actors

GALLERY - Q&A, contributions

GALLERY - Cross-section of participants

GALLERY - IEC and visibility

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Involving young people in breast and prostate cancer awareness

Related issues

Mammogram screening

Self-breast examination

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) – Breast Cancer

Events

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