MHMS Launches Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026

Dr. Gregory Jilini, Permanent Secretary Acting sharing his remarks at the event.

Ms. Yvvonne Ogaoga, shared her personal testimony as a breast cancer survivor during the official launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026. Her testimony highlighted the importance of raising awareness about breast cancer, encouraging early detection and supporting women affected by the disease. As a survivor, her story serves as a reminder of the courage and strength required to face breast cancer and the importance of ensuring that no woman has to go through the journey alone.

The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), with support from the Solomon Islands Australia Partnership for Health (SIAPH), today officially launched Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 (October 14 to November 7) at the National Referral Hospital (NRH), urging women to prioritise their health through early detection and timely medical care.

Dr Gregory Jilini, Health Permanent Secretary Acting, MHMS speaking at the launch said breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting women in Solomon Islands, with approximately 128 women diagnosed each year and around 47 losing their lives to the disease.

He highlighted that breast and cervical cancers together account for almost half of all cancers affecting women in the country, emphasising the importance of awareness, screening and early intervention

Dr Jilini also expressed concern over the increase in new breast cancer patients requiring chemotherapy at NRH, from 39 in 2019 to 99 in 2022.

“Behind every number is a woman with a family, hopes for the future and people who depend on her,” he said.

He noted that many women seek medical care only when breast cancer has reached an advanced stage, making treatment more difficult, more costly and less likely to achieve the best outcomes.

Fear, stigma, financial pressures and limited awareness were identified as some of the barriers preventing women from seeking medical attention early. He also acknowledged that some women prioritise the needs of their families over their own health.

“Your health matters. Seeking help early is an act of courage and strength,” Dr Jilini said, encouraging women to take an active role in protecting their health.

He emphasised that breast cancer can be treated more successfully when detected early, as early detection provides more treatment options and improves the chances of survival.

Despite having mammography equipment, trained radiographers and health professionals available at NRH, screening rates remain low. Between January and June 2026, the hospital conducted only 190 mammograms, averaging approximately 32 each month.

“This year’s message is simple: Get screened. Get your pink ribbon shirt,” Dr Jilini said.

He encouraged eligible women to come forward for screening and to bring their sisters, friends or colleagues along. He also urged women who notice a lump or any unusual change in their breasts not to wait for a screening campaign, but to visit a health facility and speak with a health worker as soon as possible.

Dr Jilini stressed that addressing breast cancer is a shared responsibility, calling on families, churches, communities and employers to encourage and support women in accessing screening and timely care.

He thanked development partners, campaign supporters, health professionals and everyone contributing to the initiative. He also paid tribute to breast cancer survivors, acknowledging their courage and the hope their stories provide to other women facing the disease.

The launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 serves as a call to action for individuals, families and communities across Solomon Islands to strengthen awareness, reduce stigma and encourage early detection.

Dr Jilini urged the public to turn awareness into action by replacing fear with knowledge, stigma with support and delays with early care.

“Get screened. Bring a sister. Encourage someone you love to do the same. Together, through compassion, courage and early action, we can save lives,” he said.

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