By Johnson Siamachira
Harare, (New Ziana) – In a society where masculinity often equates to silence, breast cancer lurks like a hidden enemy among Zimbabwean men as the often-overlooked disease, which affects a small yet significant number of men, remains shrouded in stigma and ignorance.
As the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the urgency to confront this silent epidemic has never been greater.
While breast cancer is predominantly viewed as a women’s disease, the reality in Zimbabwe is striking: men face a 1 in 833 lifetime risk of developing the disease. The lack of awareness and cultural stigma leads to late diagnoses and poor outcomes, making education and early detection critical for survival.
Kevin Sibanda, a 65-year-old resident of Mabelreign in Harare, embodies the silent struggle that many men face. What began as a seemingly innocuous pimple on his chest turned into a life-altering diagnosis.
“I was in South Africa in July 2015, working at a commercial bank when I first noticed the spot beneath my left nipple,” he recalls, still shaken by the memory. Initially dismissing it with over-the-counter creams, he returned to Zimbabwe, where a mammogram revealed the grim truth: male breast cancer.
“The doctor’s words made my blood run cold. She asked, ‘Do you have a strong support structure?” Sibanda’s journey was just beginning. The lump was aggressive, requiring an urgent mastectomy on August 1, 2015. “Breaking the news to my family was hard. I tried to reassure my sons, but I was terrified myself,” he admits.
Sibanda underwent 16 sessions of chemotherapy, struggling with the debilitating side effects of the treatment. “Chemo was hell. Everything tasted metallic, and I felt like I was in a fog. All I could concentrate on was surviving,” he recalls.
Despite these challenges, his relationship with his sons deepened, and he found solace in a support group. “I became the chairperson of my local group, dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer in men,” he proudly says.
Sibanda’s story reflects a broader issue in Zimbabwe. According to Lovemore Makurirofa, the information, research and evaluation officer for the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe, “Risk factors include age, family history, and race.” The cultural stigma surrounding male breast cancer often deters men from seeking help. “Many believe it’s a woman’s disease. I was even called ‘half a woman,’” Sibanda recounts, highlighting the discrimination that accompanies the diagnosis.
Michelle Madzudzo, the Talk Cancer Zimbabwe founder and president, says: ’’Because breast cancer in men is so rare, a man might ignore any symptoms and postpone seeing his general practitoner or visit a health facility,” adding: “In some cases, this may mean that the cancer is already at an advanced stage when it’s diagnosed. The sooner breast cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome may be, so it’s important to get the following symptoms checked out as quickly as possible.”
Economic barriers further complicate matters. High healthcare costs and limited access to specialised services often delay crucial diagnosis and treatment. “Men are reluctant to seek help due to traditional perceptions of masculinity,” Makurirofa explains. In response, various stakeholders, including government agencies and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), are working to raise awareness and improve access to screenings.
Organisations like Padare are at the forefront of these initiatives. “We conduct community dialogues to encourage men to prioritise their health,” says Walter Vengesai, Padare’s director. The organisation also addresses mental health stigma, emphasising that men are not invincible and need support. “We provide counselling and referrals to ensure men access the care they need,” Vengesai adds.
As October unfolds, so do the calls for increased awareness. Cimas Health Group chief executive officer, Vuli Ndlovu, has urged men to undergo regular screenings. “Breast cancer remains a significant health challenge, but early detection can save lives,” he says. Ndlovu’s commitment to accessible health solutions reflects a growing recognition that male breast cancer is not just a women’s issue.
Globally, breast cancer accounts for around 2.3 million new cases annually, with the World Health Organization launching the Global Breast Cancer Initiative in 2021to reduce mortality rates by 2.5 per cent annually by 2040, potentially saving 2.5 million lives.
In Zimbabwe, however, the survival rate for men diagnosed with breast cancer remains shockingly low, with less than 7 per cent surviving if diagnosed late.
While breast cancer may be less common among men, the consequences of ignoring symptoms can be dire. “Men must be aware of the signs: a lump, skin dimpling, or discharge from the nipple,” warns Makurirofa. Awareness campaigns are vital, as early detection significantly improves survival rates.
The experience of Douglas Muroyiwa, another survivor from Mufakose in Harare, echoes Sibanda’s sentiments. “When I was first diagnosed, I was terrified. But with family support and proper treatment, I beat the disease,” he says, determined to share his story and encourage others to seek regular check-ups.
As the world marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is essential to dismantle the stigma surrounding male breast cancer. The fight against this silent epidemic requires collective effort, from healthcare providers to community leaders and survivors. Every voice matters in spreading awareness and encouraging men to take charge of their health.
In a society where silence often reigns, let the stories of survivors like Sibanda and Muroyiwa inspire change. Breast cancer is not just a women’s fight; it’s a battle that involves everyone.
As Sibanda says, “Every year, I celebrate two birthdays: my actual birthday and the date I was diagnosed. That’s my life birthday. I was given a second chance.”
In Zimbabwe, raising awareness about male breast cancer is not merely a health issue, it is a call to action for a society that must confront its misconceptions and prioritise the health of all its citizens.
New Ziana
