Tenerife Council marked International Breast Cancer Awareness Day on Monday 19 October with a reading of a manifesto at its headquarters in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The event brought together representatives from healthcare, science, culture and patient support organisations, all highlighting the importance of awareness, research and equal access to healthcare.
The manifesto was prepared by the Spanish Breast Cancer Federation (FECMA) and its 49 affiliated associations. Those attending included Tenerife Council president Rosa Dávila, social action councillor Águeda Fumero, María Carmen Bonfante, president of the Tenerife Breast Cancer Association, and Diana Mora, director of Tenerife’s Health Area.
They were joined by representatives from sport, science, music and journalism, including La Laguna Athletics Club president Pedro Rodríguez Dorta, astrophysicist and science communicator Antonia Varela, Los Sabandeños musician Antonio Hernández and journalist Yaiza Díaz.
Dávila praised the vital role played by patient associations and reaffirmed the Council’s support for women living with breast cancer and their families.
She also stressed that everyone should have equal access to diagnosis and treatment, regardless of where they live.
Fumero added that good medical care is only part of the picture. Patients also need psychological support and help with the social and employment challenges that can follow a diagnosis. Nobody should be left feeling alone or frightened.
The manifesto called for effective screening programmes, better coordination across different parts of the country, reliable cancer records and stronger public health education.
It also highlighted the need for accurate information and an end to discrimination or inequality in cancer care.
The message was straightforward. Prevention, research and treatment matter, but so does making sure patients and their families receive proper support throughout the process.