Strengthening Prevention Efforts During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

A Call to Action from La Paz's Mayor

In a heartfelt address during the Flag Honors ceremony, La Paz's acting mayor, Amor Fenech Montaño, urged the community to engage in preventive measures as October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as the pink month. Fenech emphasized the significance of early detection, stating that it can save lives.

"Talking about breast cancer means talking about our mothers, sisters, daughters, companions, and friends; it is about women who are an essential part of our family and community, and in Baja California Sur, we have important reasons to address this issue,"

she highlighted.

The mayor referenced alarming statistics from INEGI, revealing that in 2024, Baja California Sur recorded a mortality rate from breast cancer of 24 deaths per 100,000 women, significantly higher than the national average of 18.7. This stark comparison underscores the urgency of the situation.

"These figures should call us to action, but we must also say it clearly: timely detection can make a huge difference,"

she affirmed.

Importance of Early Detection

Fenech Montaño urged women to begin self-examinations at the age of 20 and to seek clinical examinations from health professionals starting at 25. For women aged 40 to 69, she recommended regular mammograms according to medical guidelines. The mayor stressed that these preventive measures are crucial for saving lives.

"A check-up can take just a few minutes; a mammogram may seem like something we can postpone, but that time we dedicate to our health can turn into years of life,"

she expressed, addressing women directly to prioritize their health.

The mayor's message also extended to men, highlighting that breast cancer is not solely a women's issue. She called on men to participate in awareness and support their loved ones in health screenings, as breast cancer can also affect males.

"This is not just a topic for women; men have the responsibility to accompany and get checked, as breast cancer also affects men,"

Fenech Montaño stated.

Community Engagement and Support

In her address, Fenech Montaño reiterated that the La Paz City Council is committed to raising awareness and promoting prevention efforts throughout the month. She emphasized that October should be more than just a time to wear pink; it should be a period of active engagement in health initiatives.

"We must ensure that October is much more than just dressing in pink,"

she concluded, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in the fight against breast cancer.

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, the call to action from La Paz's mayor serves as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance and proactive health measures. The statistics reveal a pressing need for increased awareness and early detection efforts within the community.