Nasinu Festival contestants show their support for Pinktober by wearing pink. [PHOTO: MOSESE RAQIO]

Pinktober must be about more than wearing pink, it must push people to act.

That was the message from Fiji Cancer Society Programs Officer Shweta Kapoor, who is urging Fijians to turn breast cancer awareness into early detection and action.

Kapoor says this year’s theme, “Awareness into Action” is a reminder that conversations about breast cancer must lead to real steps, including regular breast self-examinations and seeking medical help when something changes.

She says people need to “know your normal” and take notice of anything new or unusual.

Warning signs can include a lump, changes to the nipple, dimpling or other changes to the skin, or a sudden change in the size of one breast.

Kapoor says anyone who notices such changes should visit their nearest medical centre or contact the Fiji Cancer Society.

She is also warning against relying on herbalists or massage when someone may have signs of breast cancer.

Kapoor says family history can increase the likelihood of breast cancer.

“Causes can be, first of all, your genetics. So if someone in your family has had breast cancer, then the likelihood of you getting breast cancer is also high. It doesn’t mean you will get it, but the likelihood and chances are higher, right? So you need to be more vigilant and you need to keep checking.”

She is urging women to check their breasts once a month, preferably one week after menstruation.

Men should also check themselves, as they can develop breast cancer.

Kapoor says the message is simple, and that is to know your body, spot the changes and get checked early.

For Nasinu Town Council Chief Executive Officer Felix Magnus, the message is deeply personal.

Magnus says cancer does not announce itself before it strikes.

He says survivors are powerful examples of hope for others fighting the disease.

Magnus has revealed that his own sister is now battling stage-four cancer.

He says that is the harsh reality cancer brings to families.

But Magnus says survivors can change that narrative by sharing their stories and showing others that survival is possible.

He is calling on cancer survivors to continue speaking out, inspire young people and encourage those facing the disease to keep fighting.