First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has pledged her continued support for the Maldivian health sector’s efforts to combat cancer, delivering her remarks at the inauguration of the sixth symposium on Breast Cancer Awareness.
She commended the sector’s sustained work in raising public consciousness, offering particular recognition to the dedication of health workers. Over the past decade, she noted, these initiatives have saved lives and improved recovery outcomes for countless patients. The first lady described the awareness campaign as a life-saving effort that has expanded opportunities for successful treatment and offered a measure of relief to those enduring the illness.
Turning to the nature of treatment, the first lady highlighted that modern approaches extend beyond medication alone. “Today, treatment against this illness is not administered solely through medication. Psychological support and assistance are also provided. This endeavour represents the tireless efforts of a great many individuals,” she said.
She urged the public to look beyond statistics, reminding the public that each figure reflects the lived experience of women and mothers who have endured profound hardship. Central to awareness efforts, she said, is the imperative that no woman facing the illness feels isolated. Early detection, she stressed, significantly improves the likelihood of recovery, an outcome that hinges on public education and outreach.
The first lady also called for greater understanding of women’s health, framing awareness as a critical component of prevention. She stressed that women’s well-being should not be regarded as a societal burden, but recognised as a fundamental right.
She closed by highlighting the emotional dimension of care, noting that the support of family, relatives, and close friends carries immeasurable value for those navigating the challenges of illness.