Belize launches Groundbreaking Breast Wellness program to advance Women’s Health

Published by BBNTEAM at July 5, 2025

Posted: Saturday, July 5, 2025. 9:15 am CST.

By Zoila Palma: In a significant move to improve women’s health outcomes across the country, the Ministry of Health and Wellness—partnering with Dr. Shenin Sachedina, the Belize Cancer Society, UNICEF Belize, and the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children—has launched a national Breast Wellness Awareness campaign.

At the heart of this initiative is the introduction of Point-of-Care Breast Ultrasound Training, a program spearheaded by Dr. Sachedina.

The training equips healthcare professionals with the skills and tools needed to detect breast abnormalities at earlier stages, allowing for faster diagnosis and timely treatment—particularly in underserved and rural communities.

The campaign’s message—“If you feel something, say something”—urges women to be proactive about their breast health by reporting any changes or abnormalities. It’s a call to break the silence and stigma around breast cancer and promote open conversations that lead to early diagnosis.

Globally, breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting women.

In Belize, the situation is particularly urgent: 68% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at Stage 3 or 4, when treatment is more complex and survival rates decrease significantly. Experts attribute this to a combination of limited access to screening, low public awareness, and systemic delays in care (Wong et al., 2023).

The new initiative is designed to break these barriers by improving access to diagnostic services and increasing public education. Through community-based outreach and hospital-based services, the program aims to close the gap in breast health equity.

Women can now access point-of-care breast ultrasound services at the following public hospitals:

Punta Gorda Community Hospital

Southern Regional Hospital

Western Regional Hospital

Northern Regional Hospital

As the campaign rolls out nationwide, organizers encourage continued public support, community dialogue, and shared responsibility to ensure all women have the opportunity to live healthier, longer lives.

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