Early detection is important!
THIS is your annual reminder that breast cancer screening and awareness are necessary, especially for women over 40. It’s officially “Pinktober”, and the theme this year is, “No one should face breast cancer alone”. It emphasises the point that it takes a community effort to help make a difference in the lives of survivors and patients.
In October, we reflect on and discuss the concerns and worldwide impact of this cancer. Breast cancer is quite a common form of cancer affecting women worldwide. In every forum and discussion, you’ll hear that early detection is an essential step towards decreasing the likelihood of late-stage cancer. One in eight women are likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetime. This health crisis occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably.
The World Health Organisation estimates that there are approximately 2.5 million persons diagnosed with breast cancer annually. Further, breast cancer is the cause of 670,000 deaths globally in 2022 alone. While mortality rates have slightly improved, the lack of awareness and early detection is still a sore issue for women below the poverty line. Early detection is an important factor in helping to reduce the mortality rate further. These detections can be done through
self-examinations, clinical or medical breast examinations, and mammograms. If you have a family history of breast cancer, it’s advisable to do frequent tests. We should also make necessary adjustments and advances to the public health systems in Guyana as technology advances as well. This is to ensure that Guyanese have access to modern and reliable medical care at all times.
Advocates and health professionals need to educate the public on the importance of early detection and prevention. Many women are fearful of tests because of misconceptions such as pain during the examinations. Many women are also concerned about discrimination and sexual harassment during examinations as well.
These are all barriers, and should be addressed at all levels in communities. I am also using this platform to advocate for more screening sites in rural areas, especially in the Indigenous communities. These tests are a right to health, and no one should be denied the opportunity to be examined simply because they cannot afford to do so or because of where they live.
The early stages of breast cancer can be asymptomatic (without common symptoms). As such, you cannot wait until you’re seeing physical symptoms as well. Some physical symptoms of breast cancer include areas of
discolouration on the breast, warmth or burning breast, enlargement in one breast, inverted or retracted nipples, and swollen lymph nodes in the underarm, and dimpling or pitting of the breast.
Awareness of breast cancer should transcend cultural barriers because the examination itself might be considered inappropriate for some cultures.
This health crisis needs attention and awareness every month and every day of every month—not just in October. This month goes beyond wearing a pink ribbon.
It is about remembering the lives lost, honoring the survivors, and making sure we save as many lives as we possibly can. I urge you all to continue to advocate, support research, and ensure all women have access to equal healthcare rights and opportunities.
I hope we can use this time to normalise the conversation surrounding breast, breast health, and breast cancer. It should not be sexualised or seen as a taboo topic. According to the Cancer Institute of Guyana, a mammography appointment can be scheduled by calling 592-225-5701. I hope you get tested soon after reading.
(Marissa Foster)
‘If you feel something, get it checked right away’ – cancer survivor implores persons, shares her journey of reliance
By Shaniya Harding
AS we move into the month of October, hundreds of women will be out and about in pink to promote breast cancer awareness, commonly known as Pinktober.
Among the many stories that will be told this season, few resonate as powerfully as that of Anna DeMorias, a four-time cancer survivor whose journey exemplifies courage, resilience, and hope.
Continuing to be a light for others, Anna emphasises that women should not wait; do whatever it takes to save their lives, and understand that cancer does not have to change who you are as a person. Neither does it define you.
LIFE BEFORE AND AFTER CANCER
Before her initial diagnosis, Anna embodied what society would consider the picture of health. A devoted mother, wife, and working woman, she maintained an active lifestyle that included regular ‘gym’ sessions—further reinforcing the fact that anyone can develop cancer. However, one ordinary day would alter the course of her life when she discovered a lump in her breast.
Despite her typically brave nature, Anna hesitated before seeking medical attention, a decision she now reflects on as life-changing. "I was living a normal life, day-to- day, working, taking care of my kids and everything. I was just going to the ‘gym’ one morning, like I always did, and when I came back, I
felt a lump by my right side. I got scared, but I didn't go to the hospital right away. It was months later, in 2008, that I finally decided to get it checked, and the biopsy came back positive for cancer," she said. The diagnosis revealed Stage Three cancer.
The decision to have her right breast removed was a difficult one, but Anna made the bold choice to save her life. "I wasn't crying or nothing when they told me I had cancer. I told my family, and everybody was there for me. You know, I had to have surgery, and then lat-
er, I had nine months of chemotherapy," she explained. But that was just the beginning of a long and difficult battle with cancer, as it would later appear in her lungs and left breast. When initially given a grim prognosis, Anna refused to accept defeat, and sought out other avenues. "I didn't give up, though. I went to the Cancer Institute, and they told me it was 50-50. But I had faith, and I said, 'It's in God's hands now.' I started chemotherapy again at ‘Mercy’, and then at the ‘Public Hospital’. Nine months of ‘chemo’, and I made it through." However, her battle was far from over. "But then, in 2015, I felt another pain in my breast. I went straight to the hospital, and they did another biopsy. It came back positive again; Cancer! I didn't wait this time," she shared.
IMPACT ON FEMININITY
Anna ultimately underwent what most women would consider a nightmare: A bilateral breast removal. Reflecting on this part of her journey, Anna shared that in the same way cancer does not define who she is, neither does her body. She emphasised that many women hesitate about having similar surgery, because they consider partners and relationships, but Anna urges them to do what is necessary for them to keep living.
"A lot of women are scared to take off their breasts; they think it makes them less of a woman, or they worry about what their partner will think. But let me tell you something— whether you have breasts or not, if a man is going to leave, he's going to leave. That's my policy. It doesn't make you less of a woman. You have to do
Anna DeMorias, cancer survivor and inspiration (Delano Williams Photo)
A group of survivors gathered in Georgetown for a tree-wrapping ceremony. Among them, Anna (Delano Williams photos)
Chemicals linked to breast cancer leach
NEARLY 200 chemicals connected to breast cancer are used in the making of food packaging and plastic tableware, and dozens of those carcinogens can migrate into the human body, a new study found.
“There is strong evidence that 76 known or potential breast carcinogens from food contact materials recently purchased all over the world can be found in people,” said study coauthor Jane Muncke, managing director and chief scientific officer at the Food Packaging Forum, a nonprofit foundation based in Zurich, Switzerland, that focuses on science communication and research.
“Getting rid of these known or suspected carcinogens in our food supply is a huge opportunity for cancer prevention,” Muncke said.
Of the recently detected chemicals in food packaging, 40 are already classified as hazardous by regulatory agencies around the world, according to the study.
“So many of these chemicals have already been classified as human health hazards, yet they are still allowed to be used in food contact materials, thus allowing them to migrate into the food we eat,” said Jenny Kay, a research scientist at Silent Spring Institute,
a scientific research organization focused on the link between chemicals, women’s health and breast cancer. She was not involved in the study.
Rates of early-onset breast cancer in women under 50 are increasing, and experts said the trend cannot be explained by genetics alone.
“Rates of colon cancer are also rising in younger people,” said Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, former deputy chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society who was not involved in the study.
“Is it obesity? Is it alcohol? Is it the lack of physical activity? Is it environmental? There are a lot of reasons,” Lichtenfeld said, “and it’s going to take a long time to sort which
has the most impact, as some of these chemicals may be high risk, some low risk.”
The Consumer Brands Association, which represents the consumer products industry, told CNN that its members adhere to the US Food and Drug Administration’s evidence-based safety standards.
“Packaging exists to protect and keep food safe for consumption,” said Sarah Gallo, the association’s senior vice president of product policy and federal affairs, in an email.
“The FDA reviews and approves food contact substances through their science and riskbased system before they go to market,” Gallo said. “The agency’s post market review also provides continuous safety analysis and regulation of the approved substances.”
The FDA has been under fire for its failure to act quickly on health concerns about some 14,000 chemicals known to be added to food. The agency will hold a public meeting Wednesday to present its ideas on how to improve its post-market food analyses.
POSSIBLE BREAST CARCINOGENS
In 2007, Silent Spring published a list of 216 chemicals that can cause mammary tumors in rodents — a key method for determining toxicity, according to experts.
A January 2024 update to that list found 921 possibly carcinogenic chemicals, including 642 that may stimulate estrogen or progesterone production, another known risk factor for breast cancer.
“The fact that so many potential breast carcinogens are present in food packaging and can migrate into our food is just one example of how many chemicals we are unwittingly exposed to every day,” said Kay, who coauthored the 2024 study update published in Environmental Health Perspectives.
“Many of the mammary carcinogens are hormone disruptors, too, and many of the chemicals on our list can also damage DNA,” she said. “Consumers should not have to keep track of all of the scientific literature on what chemicals to avoid. It should be on regulators to recognize the danger and take action.”
CARCINOGENS IN PLASTIC, PAPER AND CARDBOARD
The new study, published Tuesday in the journal Frontiers in Toxicology, compared the Silent Springs database of known carcinogens for breast cancer with the Database on Food Contact Chemicals Monitored in Humans, or FCChumon.
FCChumon, created by the Food Packaging Forum, is a list of food contact chemicals that have been detected in human breast milk, blood, urine and tissues.
“The new study took our list of potential breast carcinogens and compared it to their list of chemicals that have been found in food
into our foods, study finds
contact materials to find out which of potential breast carcinogens could be getting into people’s diets,” Kay said. “That’s a great way to prioritize chemicals for regulatory action.”
The study found such chemicals as benzene, a known carcinogen connected to breast cancers in animals and people; 4,4’-Methylenebis-(2-Chloroaniline), a probable carcinogen linked to bladder cancer; 2,4-Toluenediamine, found to cause breast and other cancers in animals; and 3,3′-Dimethylbenzidine and o-Toluidine, which are dyes used to color plastic and paper.
“Dyes can be used in plastics, paper, cardboard and the like and can have some pretty toxic properties,” Kay said. “Plastics are not the only culprit.”
In fact, while the study found most of the exposure to carcinogens came from plastics used in food packaging, 89 suspected carcinogens were found in paper and cardboard containers.
“Paper has additives such as emulsifiers and adhesives, say if papers are glued together, or there’s a plastic layer glued to the paper,” Muncke said.
A number of the chemicals found in the study were bisphenols, phthalates or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS — worrisome chemicals that have been linked to many health concerns.
Often called “forever chemicals”
because they do not break down in the environment, PFAS are used in food packaging to prevent grease and water from soaking through food wrappers and beverage cups. PFAS can also be found in the ink used to print logos and instructions on food containers.
Chemicals in the PFAS family are linked to high cholesterol, cancer and various chronic diseases as well as a limited antibody response to vaccines in both adults and children, according to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.
Phthalates have been linked to childhood obesity, asthma, cardiovascular issues, cancer and premature death in people ages 55 to 64.
Bisphenol A, or BPA, is an endocrine disruptor that has been linked to fetal abnormalities, low birth weight, and brain and behavior disorders in infants and children. In adults, the chemical has been linked to the development of diabetes, heart disease, erectile dysfunction, cancer and a 49% higher risk of early death within 10 years.
STEPS TO TAKE TO REDUCE EXPOSURE
While it’s up to regulatory agencies to make sweeping changes to protect the food supply, there are steps consumers can take to reduce the risk of toxic chemicals and carcinogens, according
to Silent Spring.
Avoid burning or charring food, as the muscle meat of beef, pork, fish or poultry produces DNA-damaging chemicals when grilled at high temperatures or over an open flame. Use a ventilation fan when you cook.
Pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, accumulate in fat, so remove the fat and skin from meat and fish before cooking and drain off any that forms during meal preparation.
Choose smaller, younger seafood that will contain less mercury and other toxins than larger, older seafood, according to Silent Spring.
While many canned foods and lined cartons have moved away from BPA, some still do use the chemical in the lining. Replacements include acrylic and polyester resins as well as polyvinyl chloride resins, or PVC. Currently, scientists aren’t sure about safety profiles for these substitutes.
Choose organic produce, meat and dairy over conventional when you can — while heavy metals may still be present, organic food is exposed to fewer pesticides.
Toss plastic containers. Instead, store and microwave all foods in glass rather than plastic, don’t use nonstick pans for cooking and replace any plastic bottles and coffee makers with glass or stainless steel. (CNN)
‘If you feel...
what you have to do to live," She said.
A CONTINUING BATTLE
Most recently, in her rollercoaster journey since 2008, Anna was diagnosed with cancer yet again; this time vaginal. Speaking openly to the Pepperpot Magazine, she stated, "After all that, in 2018, I woke up one night, and I saw blood. I was scared, so I called my oncologist. She was in Brazil at the time, but she arranged for me to see a doctor here. They did a biopsy, and it came back positive again. I had to do 26 sessions of radiation, but the radiation damaged me badly. I'm still suffering from it. But through it all, I kept my faith, and I'm still here."
A BEACON OF HOPE AND INSPIRATION
Anna is an inspiration to men and women going through more than just cancer; she continues to show up at events to share her story and motivate others. Her advice to women has been consistent and clear: Do not hesitate and consider their well-being above the possibilities of relationships. "I tell every woman I meet, if you feel something,
don't wait. Don't hesitate. Go get it checked right away.”
Throughout her journey, support has been Anna's biggest weapon in her fight against cancer. She credits her survival to the unwavering backing of her loved ones, medical team, and NGOs like the Giving Hope Foundation and the Periwinkle Club. "Support is everything. My family, my friends, my doctors—they all stood by me. I know many people who didn't have support, and they didn't make it. My advice to women is this: Have faith, be strong in God, and surround yourself with people who will stand by you through everything," she shared.
As Pinktober continues to raise awareness about breast cancer, Anna DeMorias stands as a testament to the power of early detection, resilience, and the importance of a strong support system. Her story reminds us that while cancer may affect our bodies, it need not define our spirit or determination to survive.
Through her courage and openness, she continues to light the way for others facing similar battles, proving that even in the darkest times, hope and strength can prevail.
‘Many Hands, Caring Hearts’
– One Communications’ Pinktober 2024 targets more funds for cancer treatment, prevention efforts, enhanced awareness across the country
IN a continued show of corporate social responsibility, One Communications, formerly known as the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), officially launched its 2024 Pinktober campaign at the Pegasus Corporate Centre in Georgetown.
This year’s initiative marks another year of the company’s commitment to raising cancer awareness and supporting those affected by the disease, as part of Cancer Awareness Month.
Pinktober, which began in 2017 under the company’s previous brand, has grown into one of the most impactful campaigns for cancer education, prevention, and treatment in Guyana.
Speaking at the launch, Ian Lewis, One Communications’ Director of Brand and Buzz, highlighted the importance of the
annual event in mobilizing communities, organizations, and individuals to join the fight against cancer.
“Our 2023 theme, ‘Many Hands, Caring Hearts’, reflects the collective strength of our community. It is through this sense of unity that we have mobilised individuals and organisations to rally around the cause,” Lewis said, stressing that Pinktober is not just a campaign, but a heartfelt movement dedicated to making a difference.
This year’s campaign, operating under the theme “Many Hearts, One Fight”, will focus on raising funds and awareness across the country, with proceeds going toward cancer treatment and prevention efforts.
One Communications has partnered with key stakeholders in the healthcare sector, including the Ministry of Health and several non-governmental organisations like
Champions of Home, the Cancer Institute of Guyana, the Giving Hope Foundation, and the Guyana Cancer Society.
Lewis emphasised the significant impact Pinktober has had over the years, stating, “Together, we have made a lasting impact, reaching thousands of persons across Guyana and providing essential support for cancer patients and their families.” He urged the community to continue supporting the cause
awareness.
Dr. Lachmie Lall, Director of Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, provided a sobering overview of the cancer statistics in Guyana. She noted that breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers among women in the country, with the number of cases increasing over recent years. According to the Ministry’s data, breast cancer cases jumped from 123 in 2020 to 186 in 2022. Other cancer types, including prostate and cervical cancer, have also shown significant increases, reflecting the need for continued efforts in cancer prevention and treatment.
through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about cancer awareness.
A central highlight of Pinktober 2024 will be the annual Pinktober Walk, scheduled for October 27. The event, which starts at 06:00hrs from the Everest Cricket Ground, is expected to attract thousands of participants eager to show their solidarity in the fight against cancer.
Additionally, every Friday in October will be observed as “Wear Pink Fridays”, encouraging public participation in raising
“Cancer is a disease that does not discriminate. It touches mothers, sisters, daughters, brothers, fathers, sons—everyone,” Dr. Lall said.
She emphasised the broader societal impact of each diagnosis, which not only affects individuals but also families, communities, and the national healthcare system.
As part of its fundraising efforts, One Communications has also launched a donation drive, where individuals can contribute by texting the word “donate” to 620-PINK (7465). Each text contributes $500 to cancer initiatives. Corporate donations can be made through the official website, www.onepinktober.com.
With Guyana’s cancer statistics on the rise, Pinktober 2024 aims to rally the nation in support of those affected and continue the vital work of raising awareness, educating the public, and funding cancer treatment and prevention. As Lewis noted, “Every action counts.”
Survivor’s Story: Noreen Outar Ali’s journey through breast cancer and her message of hope
ZOREEN Outar Ali was 44 when a seemingly insignificant lump in her breast quickly became a concern that spiralled into a battle for her survival—one filled with pain, resilience, love, hope, and determination.
Now, at 53, Zoreen is publicly sharing her story as part of One Pinktober’s month of activities to bring awareness to breast cancer disease as statistics from the Cancer Registry, Ministry of Health, revealed that the country has recorded 129 breast cancer cases from January to June 2024, and a total of 235 cases for all of 2023.
According to Zoreen, when she felt the lump at first, she was not alarmed, but then, as she noticed it was growing rapidly, she decided to see a doctor.
As she sat in her living room in Providence, with her daughter close by, Zoreen recounted, “I felt in my heart that something wasn’t right,” and once she got her diagnosis, heavy conversations immediately followed with her loved ones.
Zoreen Outar Ali was 44 when a seemingly insignificant lump in her breast quickly became a concern that spiralled into a battle for her survival—one filled with pain, resilience, love, hope, and determination
At the same time, she still could not believe the diagnosis which she said showed “the lump was cancerous.”
A second opinion in French Guiana brought even more alarming news—her breast cancer was at stage IV (four) and was triple-negative, an aggressive type known for advancing rapidly.
For several months in 2014 and 2015, she battled
through a gruelling regimen of chemotherapy which preceded her mastectomy. This procedure marked the loss of her right breast but symbolised a step towards survival. After the surgery, she faced two more rounds of chemotherapy, each session a taxing reminder of the fight she had to endure.
“It was a test of my spirit,” Zoreen said. The months of treatment, the physical toll, and the mental strain could
have broken her, but she had the unwavering support from her family and friends.
“I couldn’t have done it alone. My family was my anchor. I am forever grateful to my family for their love and support,” she said.
The cancer survivor added that through her tears and triumphs, she emerged from her ordeal with a new perspective on life.
She said: “After my diagnosis, I started volunteering in several organisations, and I encourage men and women to get screened, even if they are scared. Tell a friend or someone you trust. Don’t try to go through it alone.”
With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Zoreen hopes her story will inspire women and men everywhere to fight, to hope, and to believe that they, too, can survive breast cancer.
On October 27, One Communications is hosting its One Pinktober run/walk activity for breast cancer awareness, and is inviting the public to come out to show support for survivors and fighters of breast cancer or other types of cancer.
To support fund-raising efforts to help survivors and fighters of cancer, https://onepinktober.com and to donate, go to www.pinktobergy.masaxcess.com or donate via SMS - Text ‘Donate’ to 620-(PINK) 7465. For more information about One Communications Pinktober 2024, visit pinktoberdonations@onecommgroup.com.
