Three-day breast cancer screening campaign held at Bangladesh secretariat

Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. To raise awareness, promote early detection, and emphasise the importance of timely treatment, the health and family welfare ministry launched a special three-day breast cancer screening programme at the Bangladesh Secretariat Clinic from 27-29 October 2025.

October is globally observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and as part of this global initiative, this programme has been arranged for officers and employees of the Secretariat. The goal is to create a broader awareness within society about breast cancer prevention and early diagnosis.

The three-day screening programme will take place daily from 10am to 3:30pm. The main objectives are to raise awareness among government officials and employees about breast cancer and to educate them on self-examination and early detection methods.

Several key initiatives have been introduced for female officers and staff, including breast health screening and consultation by qualified healthcare professionals. To make breast self-examination methods easier to understand, digital kiosks displaying animated videos in the local language have been set up. For cases involving suspicious lumps or swellings, necessary ultrasonography and referrals to specialists will be provided for further evaluation and treatment.

In addition, on-site medical professionals and female nurse counselors will conduct interactive question and answer sessions and provide personal counseling. Pamphlets and leaflets about self-examination techniques and screening centers will be distributed. Pink ribbons will also be handed out as a symbol of solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.

The initiative aims to directly educate Secretariat employees about breast cancer, normalise discussions on screening in professional settings, and establish a sustainable awareness model for future workplace health programmes.