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Zambia’s Ministry of Health has approved the country’s first Social Behaviour Change (SBC) communication materials specifically targeting male breast cancer, in a move aimed at increasing awareness among men.
The materials, developed by the Male Breast Cancer Foundation, are expected to support national awareness efforts by providing men and communities with information on the signs of breast cancer, self-examination and the importance of seeking medical attention early.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination, George Sinyangwe, said the approval would allow the foundation to print and distribute the materials as part of efforts to raise awareness about male breast cancer.
“The Ministry valued the foundation’s collaboration in advancing public health priorities and supporting national development objectives,” Sinyangwe said.
Although breast cancer is less common among men, the Male Breast Cancer Foundation said Zambian men do develop the disease and are often diagnosed late because of limited awareness, stigma and a lack of information specifically targeting men.
The foundation said the approved posters would be distributed nationally to help address misconceptions that breast cancer is exclusively a women’s disease.
Foundation Founder, Boaz Musamvu, said the approval represented an important shift in the way male breast cancer was addressed.
“For too long, men have suffered in silence. These materials ensure men are finally seen, informed, and included in the fight against breast cancer,” Musamvu said.
The foundation said the initiative was intended to encourage men to recognise possible warning signs and seek medical attention promptly rather than delay treatment.
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