According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2020 data, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. While 2.3 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, this number exceeds 25 thousand in Türkiye. Against this public health problem, the “strong family” campaign was implemented. The campaign, which was launched in cooperation with the Pink Traces Women’s Cancer Association and Gilead Türkiye, aims to increase social awareness and to guide families living with MMK. The start of the campaign was given with the introduction of the book “Adventure Jar”. The book was opened free of charge through the association’s website.
The first step of the “My Güçlü Family” campaign, “Adventure Jar”, tells the story of families living with metastatic breast cancer. The book was prepared by the Italian artist Alexandra Colombo, inspired by the real stories of the Metastatic Breast Society in Canada. The book describes the summer holiday that turns into adventure with Zeynep and Can’s imagination while the treatment of their mother is in progress. Emphasizing the value of the time spent by the family, the book aims to help children understand their emotional needs and establish strong ties with their parents.
“Mothers with MMK are worried about their children”
Arzu Karataş, President of Pink Traces Women’s Cancer Association, stated that mothers who are diagnosed with MMK have great concern for their children and said, “In this process, mothers are making extra efforts to prevent their children from being affected by their own difficulties. The book ‘Adventure Jar’ is an important resource to strengthen family communication and give a message of hope in this challenging process. ”
Hope is increasing with innovative treatments
Medical Oncology Specialist Dr. Özge Gümüşay emphasized that innovative treatments in metastatic breast cancer improve the life and quality of life and said, “Patients can lead an active life for many years thanks to the treatment methods developed in recent years. However, it is of great importance for families to receive psychological and social support in this process ”.
What do the figures say in the fight against cancer?
-19.3 million new cancer cases are seen every year throughout the world. This number is expected to reach 30 million in 2040.
-Me cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. 2.3 million new cases and 685 thousand deaths were recorded in 2020.
-More than 25 thousand women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in Turkey. Metastatic breast cancer cases make up 10 %of all breast cancers.
