October is Pink Ribbon Month, a month that strongly reminds us of the importance of caring for one’s health. The pink ribbon, a symbol of the fight against breast cancer, carries the message that prevention saves lives. Early detection of changes in the breast can be crucial for treatment and recovery. In Montenegro, around 400 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. For this reason, Pink October is an opportunity to encourage every woman to pause, listen to her body, and undergo preventive screening.
From this month, the Tivat Health Centre is equipped with a modern digital mammograph worth nearly €175,000. Thanks to the RISE-UP project, funded through the Interreg IPA CBC Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro 2021–2027 programme, Tivat joins other cities providing its female residents with the most precise and reliable breast diagnostics.
“Mammography is the gold standard in diagnosing various changes in the breast. The earlier a change is detected and breast cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chances of successful treatment. Unfortunately, Montenegro ranks among the highest in breast cancer incidence,” emphasizes Dr. Danica Stevović, Director of the Tivat Health Centre.
Radiology nurse Tamara Stojanović notes that mammography is a painless procedure lasting only a few minutes, yet it can save a life.
“We encourage all women aged 40 and above to visit the radiology service with a referral from their chosen doctor or gynecologist,” says Tamara, adding that appointments are scheduled daily.
The women of Tivat have already recognized the importance of mammographic diagnostics. “If we prevent in time, we don’t have to treat,” says Sandra, one of the survey participants, while her fellow citizen Tanja points out that “the screenings are neither painful nor inaccessible, as often thought.” Another Tivat resident, Lidija, reminds everyone: “Prevention is important not only in the fight against cancer but also against other diseases.”
Through the RISE-UP project, the Tivat Health Centre further demonstrates its commitment to improving healthcare and strengthening preventive medicine. The acquisition of the digital mammograph is part of a broader effort to modernize services and make healthcare more accessible. The RISE-UP project also provided new ambulances and outreach vehicles, as well as microbiology equipment. Another EU project, “Before Time,” aimed at strengthening prevention and early detection of cervical cancer, has provided modern gynecological equipment.
At a time when breast cancer statistics are alarming, the example of Tivat shows that investing in prevention and modern diagnostics is not a luxury, but a necessity. The new digital mammograph and modern gynecological equipment in Tivat not only bring technical advancement but also send a clear message that women’s health is a priority.
Author: Anđelika Durutović