PrinkDrive brings cancer awareness to Chatsworth

To celebrate World Cancer Day (WCD), Pink Drive will be partnering with the Department of Health, sponsors and civil society to bring critical cancer screening, awareness, and education to communities in Chatsworth on February 6.

WCD is an initiative under which the world can unite in the fight against the global cancer epidemic, said Janice Benecke, marketing and events co-ordinator for PinkDrive.

WCD is led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to support the goals of the World Cancer Declaration, written in 2008, she added.

The UICC, the organiser of WCD, encourages governments to improve health equity, make it easier for all populations to enjoy affordable and accessible cancer services and reduce disparities in cancer incidence and mortality, said Ms Benecke.

“Our plan is to close the gap in cancer care, half the world’s population lacks access to the full range of essential health services. When it comes to cancer, many are denied basic care, even though we live in a time of awe-inspiring advancements in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.”

CEO and founder of PinkDrive, Noelene Kotschan said WCD aims to mobilise urgent action to improve cancer risk awareness as well as prevention, treatment and care services for all individuals, regardless of who they are and where they live.

“There are significant disparities in outcomes due to prejudices and assumptions based on socio-economic status, gender and other cultural norms, race and ethnicity, age, geographical location, sexual orientation, and disability.

“PinkDrive’s fundamental message is that early detection can prolong a life and the mobile gender-related cancer screening services we provide bring early detection to all South Africans regardless of location or economic status,” said Ms Kotschan.

Cancer screening services that will be provided on the day include clinical breast examinations, prostrate cancer screenings and pap smears. Additional services will include diabetes screening, cholesterol, blood pressure, body mass index, tuberculosis and basic lung testing, lung screening and eye tests. A doctor will also be available to answer any questions on health issues and concerns.

The event will be held on Tuesday February 6 at the Chatsworth Nelson Mandela Community Youth Centre from 8am to 3pm.