THE Office of Censorship has marked Pinktober with a breast cancer awareness initiative aimed at promoting early detection, preventive health practices, and the importance of prioritizing personal wellbeing among staff.
The awareness held at the Office of Censorship, brought together female staff as part of the annual October campaign aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer and other forms of cancer.
This year’s activities went beyond the traditional display of pink ribbons. In a bid to deepen engagement, a photo booth was setup which also featured an educational session delivered by four nurses from the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) Health Division and Port Moresby General Hospital Cance Clinic.
The awareness session was on breast cancer, early detection, prevention, and the importance of seeking timely medical advice, Chief Censor Mr Jim Abani said the occasion was an opportunity to speak not only as the head of the Office of Censorship but also as a Papua New Guinean, a father, and a brother who understood the impact cancer could have on families and communities.
“Today, 1 am not speaking as the Chief Censor. 1 am speaking as a Papua New Guinean, as a father and as a brother. Cancer is not just a health issue; it is a family issue that affects our homes, workplaces and communities,” Mr Abani said.
He said while October was recognized as Cancer Awareness Month, health awareness and personal welbeing should remain priorities throughout the year. “Every year, we hear of colleagues, family members and friends affected by cancer, and many of us have wantoks who are fighting this disease,” he said.
He also extended his message to men, urging them to pay attention to their oral health and seek medical advice if they develop persistent mouth sores “If you have a mouth sore that does not heal within two weeks, please seek medical attention,” he said.
Mr Abani further urged staff and the wider community to address the stigma and misconceptions surrounding cancer, including beliefs that the disease was caused by sorcery or poisoning.
“We must also overcome the stigma and misconceptions surrounding cancer. In our communities, some people may associate cancer with sorcery or poisoning but we must encourage people to seek medical advice rather than hide their illness out of fear or shame,” he said.
Mr Abani thanked the Awareness and Publicity Section, the NCDC Health Division, and all staff members who contributed to making the initiative possible. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Censor Ms Iikomau Ali, in her remarks, also thanked the nurses for accepting the invitation to provide professional health information to staff.
She emphasized that the demands of daily work and personal responsibilities could sometimes cause people to overlook their health, particularly the importance of regular medical check-ups and early detection. “In the midst of our busy lives, we can easily forget that our health is important.
 Regular medical checks are vital, and awareness like this is necessary for us women. Your health is your priority,’ Ms Ali said.
She encouraged female staff to take responsibility for their health through regular medical consultations, breast self-awareness, healthy lifestyle choices and seeking medical atftention when they notice unusual changes in their bodies.
She said initiatives such as Pinktober provided an opportunity for people to learn, share experiences, and strengthen their understanding of the importance of health and wellbeing.
The Pinktober awareness shows the Office’s commitment to promoting a culture of care, responsibility, and wellbeing among its employees, while encouraging staff to take proactive steps towards protecting their health and supporting their families.