BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI– Young people have been urged to stay away from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption as health experts intensify calls for lifestyle choices that can help reduce the risk of cancer.
National Cancer Programme Manager Xolisile Dlamini said young people should take their health seriously from an early age, warning that some lifestyle habits may expose them to greater health risks later in life.
She made the remarks during the Kusile Breakfast Show as Eswatini observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Dlamini said cancer awareness should not only focus on treatment after a diagnosis, but must also include prevention, early detection and making informed health choices.
She encouraged young people, in particular, to minimise smoking and alcohol abuse and to understand that decisions made today can have an impact on their future health.
The message comes as health authorities continue promoting greater public awareness about cancer, including the importance of recognising possible symptoms and seeking medical attention without unnecessary delay.
Dlamini said people should not ignore changes in their bodies or postpone medical checks when they have concerns.
She said Government had strengthened its response by training nurses and doctors on cancer checks, enabling health workers to better assist people who need screening and further assessment.
This, she indicated, is aimed at improving access to early detection services and ensuring that possible cases are identified and referred for appropriate medical attention.
Regular screening has also emerged as an important part of the country’s cancer awareness efforts.
Eswatini Cancer Network Programme Manager Dumisile Ngwenya said people should make screening part of their health routine instead of waiting until they become seriously ill.
She said early screening gives health professionals an opportunity to identify concerns sooner and advise patients on the next steps.
The Eswatini Cancer Network conducts community screening programmes through mobile clinics and nurses, taking services closer to people who may otherwise struggle to access them.
Ngwenya encouraged members of the public who notice possible cancer symptoms to seek professional medical assessment as early as possible.
The message from health practitioners is that cancer awareness should not end with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
While the annual campaign helps place cancer in the public spotlight, prevention, screening and early medical attention remain important throughout the year.
Members of the public are therefore being encouraged to understand their individual health risks, make use of available screening services and seek medical advice whenever they notice changes that concern them.
For young people, the message is particularly clear: protecting long-term health can begin with everyday choices, including avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol abuse and taking early warning signs seriously.
(Courtesy Pic)
