Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) has joined the global community in commemorating Breast Cancer Awareness Month under the theme “Early Detection Saves Lives.” The campaign was officially launched today at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, with a call for increased screening and public vigilance to curb the rising burden of breast cancer in the country.
Speaking at the launch on Thursday, UCI Executive Director, Dr. Jackson Orem, revealed that breast cancer remains the leading cancer among women in Uganda, accounting for nearly a quarter of all cancer cases in females.
“Uganda registers more than 4,000 new cases of breast cancer each year. Sadly, most patients come to us at advanced stages. Yet, with early detection and timely treatment, up to 90% of breast cancers are curable,” Dr. Orem said.
He urged women to take advantage of available screening services, perform regular self-examinations, and promptly seek medical attention for any unusual breast changes.
The State of Breast Cancer in Uganda
- Most common cancer among women in Uganda
- 23% of all female cancer cases (GLOBOCAN 2024)
- Affects mainly women aged 30–50 years
- 80% of patients present late, reducing survival chances
Key Risk Factors
- Advancing age
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Early menstruation or late menopause
- Obesity, inactivity, smoking, and alcohol use
- Delayed childbirth or not breastfeeding
UCI’s Recommendations for Prevention & Early Detection
- Monthly breast self-examination
- Annual clinical breast examination by a health worker
- Mammography screening for women aged 40+ or earlier if high-risk
- Healthy lifestyle habits — exercise, balanced diet, no smoking, limited alcohol
Cancer Treatment Services at UCI
The Institute offers free or subsidized treatment, including:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Hormonal and targeted therapies
To improve access, UCI is decentralizing services through regional cancer centres in Gulu, Mbarara, Mbale, and Arua.
October Awareness Activities
Throughout the month, UCI and partners will conduct:
- Free screening at UCI and select regional hospitals
- Nationwide media campaigns on prevention and early signs
- Community education drives on self-examination
- Health worker training in screening and referral
“Breast cancer is treatable and curable when caught early. We urge every Ugandan to spread the message: early detection saves lives,” Dr. Orem emphasized.
About UCI
Established in 1967, the Uganda Cancer Institute is an autonomous public institution under the Ministry of Health. It serves as the national referral centre for oncology and a regional Centre of Excellence for cancer treatment, research, and training in Africa.
