In The Gambia, breast cancer is the 2nd most common type of cancer diagnosed in women while prostate cancer is the 3rd most common type diagnosed in men. The vital importance of continued awareness creation and early screening initiatives is underscored by 2022 data from the Global Cancer Observatory which reveals that 50 women died out of 101 new cases of breast cancer in the country, and 30 men out of 48 new cases lost their lives to prostate cancer.

Little access to cancer information and lesser access to the services including screening which often lead to late cancer detection are some of the factors contributing to the high death toll by breast and prostate cancer in the country.

Our campaign this year centred on education about self-breast examination; the importance of mammogram screening for women, prostate cancer screening for men and positive lifestyle choices that can reduce risks for both men and women; and the provision of screening services for both types of cancers.

In order to make a more profound impact on the health and well-being of people living in The Gambia, we addressed breast and prostate cancer simultaneously throughout the months of September and October, 2025.