Bandar Seri Begawan - Over 50 people attended the Pink Ribbon Awareness event held in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month yesterday, at the Health Promotion Centre in Berakas.

The event was organised by Breast Cancer Support Group Negara Brunei Darussalam.
Hjh Dyg Jaliha binti Hj Momin, the chairperson of the Breast Cancer Support Group in her opening speech said one of the main objectives of the event was to distribute Breast Cancer pamphlets containing useful information for women in an effort to raise general awareness on breast cancer.

"The Pink Ribbon symbolises respect and commitment for the fight against Breast Cancer, and it is to be worn throughout the Breast Cancer Awareness month," said Hjh Dyg Jaliha. "It is also a symbol of awareness for the public towards this disease as well as a show of commitment and support from all walks of life."

During the event, guests were handed Breast Cancer pamphlets and were given the opportunity to view the displays at a mini-exhibition on Breast Cancer and Breast Self-Examination. T-shirts and handmade ribbons were also on sale, the proceeds of which go directly to Breast Cancer Support Group Fund. The female visitors were also given the opportunity to undergo a Breast Self-Examination (BSE) and listen to briefings conducted by several members of the group.

Established on October 14 this year, the Breast Cancer Support Group is a non-government organisation that is committed towards supporting the breast cancer awareness and educating the public on the dangers of breast cancer.

The group's 60 members consist of breast cancer survivors, health personnel and volunteers. In Brunei Darussalam, the statistics have shown that 159 patients were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2002 and 2007, with over 80 per cent of the patients aged between 35 and 55.

However, this does not necessarily mean men are excluded from being affected by the disease. In 2008, three men were diagnosed with breast cancer. The risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of breast cancer include age, hereditary patterns, obesity, exposure to estrogen and more.

"People must be educated and aware of the dangers (breast cancer) could bring to one's life," Hjh Dyg Jaliha said in an interview with the Bulletin, yesterday. "Back in 2000, there wasn't a lot of information that could be found on breast cancer. But nowadays, there are a lot of sources and information that anyone can do their research on and educate themselves with.

"It is very hard to pinpoint the exact cause of breast cancer in Brunei. But most likely it relates to the standard of living, poor diet, lack of exercise and such," she added.
"Nowadays, everyone has a busy schedule due to work and family with no time for home-cooked meals, thus they opt for oily and express food, which is not good for one's health. Obesity alone could probably lead to this hazardous cancer."

Jenny, one of the cancer survivors and a member of the Breast Cancer Support Group said, "Awareness of breast cancer is already there.

It's your choice whether you are curious to find more information. Knowledge is the key factor. If you're a woman, know that you're always at risk. Thus, breast self-examination is very important. Remember, early detection can save your life."

Members of the public are encouraged to participate as volunteers in the Breast Cancer Support Group by joining the membership for $20 annually. For more information or queries, call the Breast Cancer Support Group hotline, 8621721 or e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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