By Victor Kojo Dei, Doctoral Student in Health Communication
October 13 every year is World No Bra Day. It aims at raising awareness about breast cancer and promoting regular screenings, for early detection of cases. Unfortunately, the day, which should focus on the serious issue of women’s and men’s health, often gets sidetracked by discussions that sexualize the female breast, rather than focusing on its importance in life-saving health conversations.
No Bra Day should remind us of the significance of breast cancer awareness, the need for regular screenings, the importance of accurate information and the need to take control of their health, by understanding risk factors and seeking medical advice when necessary. It is time we shift the narrative away from sexualization towards education and empowerment.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide and millions are affected. Early detection through mammograms and regular self-examinations remains key to improving survival rates.
No Bra Day obviously provides a valuable opportunity to dispel myths, encourage regular check-ups and provide accurate, science-based information about breast cancer prevention and treatment.
Despite the noble purpose of No Bra Day, the occasion often falls victim to misinformation and misguided discussions, particularly regarding myths that claim men sucking a woman’s breast can prevent breast cancer or people who are diagnosed with breast cancer are cursed.
Such oversimplification and blames, not only detracts focus from the serious medical conversation, but also promotes dangerous misinformation. All these can shift the attention from the very real, evidence-based steps that women can take to protect themselves from breast cancer.
Traditionally, some breast cancer awareness campaigns have used fear-based messaging to emphasize the devastating consequences of the disease. While this may grab attention, it can also generate anxiety and a sense of helplessness. Fear-based messages often make women reluctant to engage in health screenings because they associate the process with grim outcomes.
What we need in breast cancer awareness campaigns is a focus on hope rather than fear. Hope-based messages highlight the fact that early detection can save lives. Breast cancer, when detected early, has a high survival rate. Positive messaging can encourage women to be proactive about their health and have the power to take charge of their well-being.
Campaigns centered on hope and empowerment can drive real action.
These messages should remind women that screening is a step towards taking control of their health and that early detection can lead to positive outcomes. Hope-based campaigns inspire individuals to participate in life-saving health behaviours.
In commemorating No Bra Day, it is crucial that the media plays a responsible role in covering this day with dignity and respect. Sensationalized or sexualized coverage of the day undermines the very cause it seeks to promote. The focus should be on breast cancer awareness and education, not on objectifying the female body.
The Media and public discourse should concentrate on delivering accurate information that empowers women to seek screening and medical advice.
Health organizations, governments and individuals should take the lead in shaping the narrative of No Bra Day, by organizing events, workshops and public discussions, that revolve around breast cancer awareness, detection and action.
Ensuring that women have access to the right information is paramount.
Efforts should also be made to include men’s voices in the conversation, not as the solution to breast cancer myths, but as advocates and supporters of the women in their lives and for their own welfare.