Dili, 24 March (Média Democracia) – The Ministry of Health together with development partners such as UNICEF, UNFPA and Alola Foundation conducted a sensitization workshop for female F-FDTL members and military spouses about cervical and breast cancer testing at the F-FDTL Auditorium in Fatuhada, Dili. This activity took place on Monday this week.
Representing the Vice Minister for Institutional Strengthening of Health, the Director General of Primary Health Care, Elisabet Leto Mau, stated that this sensitization activity is a continuation of efforts to combat cervical cancer that began in 2024.
“With the support of our partners, we launched the HPV immunization for children aged 11 to 14 years old with support from the Australian government and partners such as UNICEF, UNFPA, and WHO, and today we are doing screenings for breast and cervical cancer targeting female military personnel and F-FDTL families.” Said the Director General through her speech at the F-FDTL Auditorium this Monday (23/03/026)
The Director General also expressed her high appreciation to the Timor-Leste Defense Forces for their dedication, discipline, and sacrifice in continuing to work to ensure peace, stability, and security for the nation.
She said in this context it’s very important the role of women in the armed forces is not only as a force to defend the nation but also to give life forward.
“Women are also mothers and pillars of future generations, and they manage families and assume important roles in societal development. They have two very big responsibilities, working for the nation and taking care of the family. That’s why women’s health is a priority that can’t be forgotten being healthy enables them to play their role well at work and in the family. A woman free from cancer has the capacity to continue contributing maximally to the nation.” She explained
That’s why at this moment we are giving special attention to female military personnel and military spouses that breast cancer and cervical cancer are among the cancers that affect women worldwide including in Timor-Leste.
“Year by year many women continue to suffer due to late diagnosis and unfortunately, lose their lives, but we have great hope because evidence shows that early detection can save lives. When cancer is detected early and accurately, treatment is easier and the outcome is much better.” She emphasized
The Chief of Cabinet of the Chief of General Staff of F-FDTL, Colonel Marcelino Ximenes “RIZAI” appreciates the Ministry of Health and partners for sensitizing information to female F-FDTL personnel so they can be aware of their situation regarding symptoms of cervical and breast cancer.
What’s important from this sensitization is that we all know that cervical cancer and breast cancer are big enemies to women worldwide including in Timor-Leste. A big problem we face is the lack of information many women don’t yet know the signs and symptoms. This is from the Ministry of Health.” said the Representative of the Chief of General Staff.
Because often women are afraid and shy to speak out about illnesses in their bodies, and they choose to keep quiet and end up losing their lives.
Meanwhile, this activity is conducted annually because FALINTIL-FDTL institutions work together with the Ministry of Health with support from ALOLA Foundation, EPICC, and UNFPA to combat cervical and breast cancer within FALINTIL-FDTL institutions, because if these diseases aren’t prevented, the infection can threaten people’s lives.
Reporting : Estefania
Photo : Estefania