19 May 2024

Batswana are encouraged to undergo testing for cancer and other non-communicable diseases since early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. 

During the 1st Annual Lebogang Kewagamang Legacy Cancer Awareness walk in Selokolela on Saturday, Member of Parliament for Kanye South, Dr Lemogang Kwape emphasised the importance of addressing NCDs to prevent unnecessary loss of lives. Dr  Kwape urged all to get tested for these diseases, highlighting that government had allocated resources for both testing and treatment when necessary.

According to Dr Kwape, lifestyle factors such as dietary habits and lack of physical activity contribute significantly to the growing number of most NCDs. 

He stressed the need for everyone to take charge of their health, be well-informed about NCDs, and emphasised that this awareness could potentially save numerous lives.

Acknowledging the participants of the walk, including the organizers, Dr Kwape extended gratitude and urged them to continue raising awareness within the community about cancer and other NCDs. 

A member of the Lebogang Kewagamang Legacy Committee, Ms Monei Nthebolang, outlined that the primary goal of the event was to enhance awareness about various types of cancer, especially among underprivileged communities. The Legacy also aims to offer support to those battling cancer and contribute to the broader efforts against the disease.

The event’s focus includes promoting early detection, empowering individuals to prioritize their health, and overall well-being. Ms. Nthebolang emphasized the crucial role of community engagement in effectively combating cancer. She called for widespread cancer testing and emphasized the significance of early detection as a community effort to combat the disease collectively.

Encouraging unity in action, she highlighted that collective community efforts could significantly impact the fight against cancer, emphasising the importance of solidarity to create a world where no one faces cancer alone.

Public Health Specialist for Southern region, Dr Christopher Chembe explained that successful cancer awareness needed all relevant stakeholders’ participation.

He urged Batswana to be always cautious of cancer signs such as persistent headache, unexplained weight loss, fatigue and unusual lumps in breasts.

Dr Chembe advised all to make use of health facilities for tests and treatment if cancer was detected, further adding that they should avoid relying on using Google to diagnose themselves.

He said NCDs including cancer, had now been declared an outbreak as they caused pre- mature deaths, hence the need for testing to ensure early detection.

The four risk factors of NCDs, he said were tobacco and alcohol use, lack of exercise and unhealthy diets, therefore he urged Batswana to change their mindset and fight risk factors.

Mr Lebogang Kewagamang was diagnosed with gastric cancer in 2019 and passed on after battling with the disease in January 2024.

He had a passion for ensuring that none of the cancer patients suffered alone, hence his idea of cancer awareness event. ENDs