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On Sunday October 20, many local residents took part in the Pink Walk organized by the Irénée de Bruyn hospital and the Collectivité territoriale as part of the month-long fight against breast cancer.
The sun hasn't even had time to take off yet, and the pink T-shirts and caps have already invaded the Gustavia hospital parking lot. It was shortly after dawn on this Sunday, October 20, that the organizers of the Marche Rose - the Irénée de Bruyn hospital and the Collectivité territoriale - decided to meet up. Everyone left their beds at first light to make their way to Gustavia. The aim of the event, which rounded off the various actions carried out on Saint-Barthélemy since the start of Pink October, was to raise awareness of breast cancer screening issues. Mission accomplished, judging by the scale of Sunday's mobilization.
Oncologist Marie Laruelle provided advice and information at the finish line of the Marche Rose.
"It was important for me to be there because I have family who have had cancer, and this walk allows us to support everyone, and especially this cause, on our little island," explains Naïma. "What encouraged us to come was our granddaughter, as it was an opportunity to introduce her to the world of associations and how to get involved.What encouraged us to come was our granddaughter, because it was an opportunity to introduce her to the world of associations and how to do something for a cause, so that she could open up a little to that," smiles Myriam, surrounded by Fabien and their daughter, Moïra. All the participants spoke of their support for the cause, but also of the pleasure of getting together for a sporting and convivial moment.
Profits from the sale of ribbons and keyrings will be donated to cancer research.
The need for early detection
After a 3.5 kilometer walk through Gustavia, everyone gathered on the forecourt of the Wall House Territorial Museum to share a breakfast. But also to chat with oncologist Dr. Marie Laruelle, who had given a lecture at the harbour master's office on Friday evening. This was an opportunity for the specialist to reiterate that breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the region, after prostate cancer. It accounts for 250 new cases per year in Guadeloupe and the Northern Islands. The age group most concerned is between 50 and 74, and 30% of cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage. This underlines the importance of hammering home the need for screening. "The earlier cancer is treated, the greater the chances of recovery," insists Dr Laruelle.
In Saint-Barthélemy in October 2024, 15 of the 22 patients in the oncology department are being treated for breast cancer. The disease is active in six of these patients.
A scarf-tying workshop (Maré tet) was offered to the participants.
