European Breast Cancer Coalition Europa Donna has declared 15 October as Breast Health Day. The aim of the day is to disseminate information concerning breast health and to raise awareness of prevention and early detection of breast cancer among women and girls across Europe.

It works to improve awareness of breast health, healthy lifestyles and factors that can help women live long, healthy lives. Europa Donna has affiliated member groups in 43 European countries, including Malta, committed to mobilise European women and advocate for improved breast cancer education

The purpose of Breast Health Day this year is to raise awareness of the link between physical activity and breast health and encouraging women to get more active. A number of local Breast Health Day activities are being organised by The Breast Care Support Group Europa Donna Malta.

These include two days of fun activities aimed at adults and children such as face painting, poster painting, collages, a demonstration of healthy food, as well as Peruvian music and performances by local artistes at Baystreet starting on 3 October. The annual Hilda Schembri memorial lecture, open to the general public, will be held on 15 October at the Phoenicia Ball Room followed by a reception.

A seminar for local and foreign doctors and health professionals, organised in conjunction with SOS Donna Catania, with the title of Breast Cancer Prevention, Communication, Treatment and Reconstruction will be held on 16 and 17 October, at the Victoria Hotel, Sliema.

The Breast Care Support Group Europa Donna Malta, in conjunction with the Health Promotion Department, is also in the final stages of compiling a book on healthy living, which will be distributed to teenage students.

More information on the Breast Health Day may be obtained on 2148 2602, 9999 4666, email: [email protected] or websites www.breasthealthday.org and www.bebreastaware.org