Breast Cancer Awareness:

Closing the Gap Between Awareness and Early Action

Dream Alive and Care Organization (DACO) has called on women, men, families and community leaders in Kisumu County to treat unusual breast changes as a health priority and seek medical assessment early.

The call comes as DACO joins global efforts to strengthen breast cancer awareness, early detection and timely referral to care. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer caused an estimated 694,000 deaths worldwide in 2024 and was the most common cancer among women in 164 of 186 countries.

Published 27. Feb 2025

Local Action Needed

DACO is encouraging residents to seek care at recognised health facilities rather than delaying due to fear, stigma, cost or misinformation. The organisation says community health promoters, faith leaders, women’s groups, schools and local administrators have an important role in normalising conversations about breast health.

“Too many women wait until a problem becomes advanced because they are afraid, ashamed or unsure where to go,” said. “We are asking families and community leaders in Kisumu to support women to speak openly, attend health facilities and encourage one another to seek help early.”

“In Kisumu, we want every woman to know that a lump, a change in the breast, discharge from the nipple or a sore that does not heal should never be ignored. Most breast changes are not cancer, but early assessment can save lives.”

Know the Warning Signs

DACO is urging residents to seek medical attention if they notice:

  • A new lump or thickening in the breast or under the arm.
  • A change in the size, shape or appearance of the breast.
  • Dimpling, redness, puckering or other skin changes.
  • Changes in the nipple or the skin around it.
  • Fluid or blood from the nipple.
  • A breast wound or sore that does not heal.

A lump does not need to be painful to require medical attention. WHO advises that anyone with an abnormal breast lump should seek care, even if there is no pain.

Early Detection Saves Lives

WHO identifies early diagnosis and screening as key parts of reducing breast cancer deaths. Early diagnosis means knowing the symptoms, seeking timely clinical assessment and being referred for treatment without delay. Mammography screening is generally recommended for women aged 50–69 in settings with strong health systems, but symptom awareness remains essential in all communities.

DACO says early presentation is especially important where access to specialised diagnostic services may be limited. Delayed care can allow cancer to progress, making treatment more complex and outcomes poorer.

“Early action is not panic; it is protection”. “A woman who visits a health facility early gives herself the best chance of a clear diagnosis and timely treatment.”

We will continue working with communities, schools, health providers and local partners to promote health education, reduce stigma and encourage early care-seeking.