Najwa Al-Raheb
Algeria - Every year in October, known as Pink October, special attention is given to the importance of early detection of breast cancer, promoting a culture of prevention, and empowering women to face the disease with courage and awareness.

As part of this year’s national Pink October campaign, the Public Institution for Community Health in Tébessa organized an awareness day on breast cancer yesterday, Monday, October 20, under the slogan “Our Strength Lies in Our Awareness.” The event featured a medical team composed of female doctors, midwives, and specialists in nutrition and psychological support.

The event took place at the Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tébessa, with a strong turnout from female students and employees who expressed great interest in early detection methods and prevention practices.

Early Detection
In her speech during the campaign, Dr. Aya Halaimia emphasized the crucial role of early detection in prevention and treatment, noting that the earlier the diagnosis, the higher the recovery rate - reaching up to 95%. She added that such campaigns aim to encourage women and students to undergo screenings without hesitation, as awareness and knowledge are the first steps in combating the disease.
Dr. Halaimia, together with a team of midwives, supervised field examinations and checkups for a group of students in a symbolic initiative meant to overcome fear and translate theoretical knowledge into practical health habits that strengthen the culture of prevention in the community.

Nutrition and Prevention
Nutrition specialist Ruqayya Misbahi explained that healthy eating plays a major role in preventing and supporting the treatment of breast cancer. She emphasized that a balanced diet strengthens the immune system and reduces the side effects of treatment. Misbahi offered a series of nutritional tips for women with the disease, urging them to eat more vegetables and fruits rich in fiber and antioxidants while reducing processed foods and saturated fats.

Psychological Support: Half the Cure
Psychologist Mona Bouhamla focused on the importance of psychological support in the treatment journey of breast cancer patients. She pointed out that a stable emotional state greatly contributes to strengthening the immune system and helping patients accept and face their illness with courage. “Fear and anxiety can become obstacles to treatment, whereas positivity and social connection help overcome this difficult stage,” she said. Bouhamla also provided attendees with psychological guidance on how to manage feelings of fear and anxiety before or during screening.
This initiative is part of a series of field activities organized throughout October by the Public Institution for Community Health in Tébessa, aimed at promoting health awareness among women and encouraging them to undergo early detection - the first step toward prevention and recovery.