On Friday, 25 October 2024, Newcastle SAPS hosted an event aimed at educating both police staff and the local community about cancer, emphasising the importance of knowing one’s health status and taking proactive measures in the fight against the dreaded disease. This initiative comes at a significant time, as October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a fact highlighted by the Cancer Association of South Africa, which reports that breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among South African women, with roughly 19.4 million women aged 15 years and older at risk of diagnosis.
Recognising cancer’s profound impact on patients, their families, and the wider community, Amajuba District Commissioner Major General Fred Alexander addressed the gathering.
“Growing up, cancer was a topic that wasn’t discussed much as it did not impact so many people. Now, we are seeing the number of cancer patients, our community included, growing,” he stated.
Major General Alexander also spoke about the lack of adequate cancer treatment facilities in Newcastle, which forces many patients to endure long and taxing journeys to receive care—a challenge that further impacts their health. With this in mind, he stressed the importance of regular health checks and screenings, urging police officers to take an active role in raising awareness. “Men are especially problematic when it comes to checking our health, as we often make sure our families get checked first, and we don’t think that it can happen to us,” he candidly remarked.
To bolster the message, Sister Mthembu from the KZN Department of Health was invited to speak at the event.
She shared insights on the need for society to take cancer more seriously. “We spend most of our time at work, then it’s focusing on our families, and we don’t check ourselves, which needs to change as prevention is better than cure,” she explained. While she acknowledged that cancer can’t always be prevented, she underscored the importance of understanding common cancers like breast, cervical, and prostate cancer. Learning to recognise early symptoms and performing self-examinations at home, she noted, are essential steps in early detection.
The event took on a poignant tone as attendees lit candles in remembrance of those in Newcastle who have lost their lives to cancer or are currently undergoing treatment. This solemn act underscored the gravity of the cause and the SAPS’s commitment to supporting community health alongside its mission to uphold public safety.
As Newcastle SAPS pledges to promote community health in tandem with fighting crime, what are your thoughts on this initiative? Share your views in the comments below.
Comments 1
We’ll done SAP also I gioe that young lady is found safe and sound