October is Breast Care Awareness Month. The Vodafone Malta Foundation is supporting this year's campaign organised by the Breast Care Support Group Europa Donna Malta. The campaign kicked off on Saturday at Freedom Square, Valletta, where the support group's patron, Mrs Fenech Adami, together with the president Ms Jackie Vassallo and Vodafone Malta Foundation chairperson Mrs Gemma Mifsud Bonnici released 1,000 pink balloons.

"Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in Maltese women and it is the main cause of death among Maltese women under the age of 50. One of the most important ways to protect a woman's health is for her to become familiar with her breasts so that she will notice changes in how they look and feel.

Every year, we launch a campaign to raise awareness on the subject. If detected early, breast cancer may be curable. The best way women can ensure that breast cancer is detected in its earliest, most treatable stage is to practise monthly self-examinations. We want to forward this message to as many women as possible. Thanks to sponsors, like Vodafone Malta Foundation and Novartis, we manage to educate a considerable number of women every year," said Jackie Vassallo.

"The aim of the Breast Care Support Group is to help and support women who have had or may be undergoing breast surgery. It supports, encourages and consoles its members in a happy atmosphere at its monthly meetings and organises other activities to ensure the development of a better breast cancer service in line with the government and other NGOs. We are more than happy to support such a worthy initiative," said Gemma Mifsud Bonnici.

The Breast Care Awareness Campaign is also supported by Novartis.

On Thursday, 11th October, a lecture will be held at the Phoenicia Hotel in Floriana at 7.00 pm giving more information about the subject. Guest speaker is Ms Ingrid Kossler who is the President of the Europa Donna Coalition and President of the Swedish Breast Organisation. The Malta College of Family Doctors have agreed to accredit all Doctors attending this lecture.