Breast cancer is a global concern, and Sri Lanka is no exception to this alarming trend. Every 14 seconds, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide, and early detection is crucial for a 100% cure rate. With 2.3 million women suffering from breast cancer worldwide in 2020, and 685,000 lives lost, the time for action is now.
Recognizing the gravity of this issue, with 4,500 new cases detected in Sri Lanka in 2019 alone, Hemas Hospitals is stepping up to make a difference during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which falls each year during October, with a special awareness drive called “BreastOber”. In particular, the effort aims to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, which is possible through Hemas Hosptals’ pain-free mammogram technology. With this advanced technology there is no need for women fear any discomfort during the procedure.
As Sri Lanka’s most loved healthcare brand and a socially responsible corporate citizen, Hemas Hospitals has taken it upon itself to educate and raise awareness among the general public about breast cancer. Beyond creating awareness, “BreastOber” also encourages women to take proactive steps towards early detection and prevention. In fact, the public can call the Hemas Hospitals BreastOber Hotline on 0777-001216 and book a free consultation – the BreastOber Clinic is open every day from 7.30am to 3.30pm. During #BreastOber, Hemas Hospitals is also offering a special 30% discount on its cutting-edge mammograms.
“BreastOber” is also helping to raise awareness about the importance of mammograms, a highly effective tool in detecting breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. Hemas Hospitals takes pride in providing all Sri Lankans with access to the latest technologically advanced mammogram systems, which can detect breast cancer even before it can be detected by a hands-on physical examination.
Despite the advantages of mammograms, many women still have the misconception that they may cause discomfort. However, this is no longer a concern as one of the significant advantages of Hemas Hospitals’ cutting-edge mammogram systems is that they ensure minimal discomfort and pain, making the screening process less daunting for women. This is providing reassurance for many women in Sri Lanka that early detection does not have to be an uncomfortable experience.
Hemas Hospitals recognizes that some individuals are more prone to breast cancer than others. Those with a family history of breast cancer, women in high-stress positions, and middle-aged and older women are at higher risk. Through “BreastOber”, its aim is to reach out to these demographics specifically, encouraging them to consider regular mammograms as a preventive measure. Hemas Hospitals complete ecosystem, from diagnosis to surgical intervention and pre- and post-op counselling for all patients who test positive, is revolutionizing how breast cancer is detected and treated in Sri Lanka.
Delaying the identification of breast cancer can have dire consequences, potentially leading to unfortunate eventualities and the untimely loss of a loved one. As the cancer progresses, it can spread to other organs, causing unbearable pain for the patient. This is why early detection through mammograms is a key to effective treatment and a high survival rate.
Dr Lakith Peiris, Managing Director at Hemas Hospitals, sums up the significance of “BreastOber” saying, “Our purpose is to make healthful living happen. This extends beyond our patients to the communities we serve. With ‘BreastOber’, we want to emphasize that early detection is the cornerstone of successful breast cancer prevention. We invite every Sri Lankan to join in our effort to create awareness and minimize the negative impacts of this disease, which is entirely curable, but only if it is detected early.”
