PinkTober Breast Cancer Awareness Program

The Pinktober Breast Cancer Awareness Community Program concluded successfully at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, drawing over 500 women over two days of powerful awareness, health education, and community engagement.

Organised by the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) through the Active City Development Program (ACDP) and Amazing Port Moresby, the event formed part of the city’s broader Pinktober and Breast Cancer Awareness Month celebrations.

The program combined free health services, awareness talks, and immunisation drives, empowering women and families to prioritise preventive health care and early detection.

Key Highlights:

● Free Health Screening: Hundreds of participants took part in free breast and general health screenings, emphasising the life-saving importance of early detection.

● Empowering Talks: Medical professionals from the NCD Public Health Authority (NCDPHA) and the Sir Brian Bell Centre of Transfusion Medicine (Blood Bank) delivered informative sessions on breast cancer awareness, blood donation, and women’s health. Participants learned practical self-examination techniques and when to seek professional care.

● Immunisation Drive: Free Polio vaccinations were offered for children aged 10 years and below, underscoring the program’s holistic focus on family and community wellbeing.

● Community Engagement: The event inspired dialogue, peer learning, and a shared commitment to health advocacy among women from our communities.

Governor Hon. Powes Parkop commended the awareness program, saying:

“It is my vision to build a healthy city — one where every resident embraces a healthy lifestyle. Initiatives like this are vital in spreading that awareness and inspiring action. I urge our people to take charge of their own wellbeing and lead active lives. When we look at countries like Australia, Japan, and the United States, their average life expectancy reaches well into the 80s, while ours ranks just 66th globally. We must change that. The overall cost of healthcare in our country can be reduced significantly if we prioritize prevention over treatment. Good health begins with each of us — we must all take personal responsibility for our wellbeing, not only in preventing breast cancer but in protecting ourselves from all forms of disease.”

The event was made possible through the support of NCDPHA, Port Moresby General Hospital, Sir Brian Bell Foundation, Pacific Industries, NWTL Group, Nestlé, Active City Development Program, and Amazing Port Moresby.

The two-day Pinktober Breast Cancer Community Awareness Program stands as a shining example of community-driven health action — empowering women, saving lives, and building a healthier Port Moresby.