As part of the International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, together with the Kosovo Center for Combating Breast Cancer “JETA/VITA,” a traditional informational and cultural event was held today under the motto “Early Detection – Survival.”

At the 19th edition of the event, many messages of thanks were given to healthcare institutions for their work in fighting this disease.

Among the healthcare professionals and citizens, the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, also participated, emphasizing that October is the month when support and solidarity transform into strength and encouragement.

President Osmani encouraged women who did not give up and faced the battle against this disease.

“October is the month when women’s strength is dressed in the color of hope, in pink. It is the month when we remember that every month of life is won with love, care, and perseverance. In this month, we do not speak of pain, but of courage and life. Today we are here to honor the cause and spirit—the spirit of women who did not give up, who confronted fear and turned it into strength, women who even in the toughest moments inspired hope for themselves, their families, and all women in Kosovo,” Osmani stressed.

Meanwhile, Dafina Ademi, a specialist at the Oncology Clinic of the University Clinical Center of Kosovo, highlighted that over 300 breast cancer cases have been registered this year, including among men.

“Years ago, Kosovo was in an information blackout regarding breast cancer in general, and breast cancer in particular. Questions at that time, such as whether this disease is contagious, are now outdated. Such questions, myths, and misunderstandings have only one answer: accurate information. I must sincerely thank Ms. Nafije Latifi as a torchbearer for spreading accurate information through healthcare professionals. Her vision has made history, left a mark, and contributed to raising awareness and education in our country. One reason why we now see fewer advanced cases in the Oncology Clinic is Ms. Nafije and her vision for education. I am sure her dedication will continue to surprise us. Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Kosovo. Up to this year, 330 women and girls, as well as three men, have been diagnosed with breast cancer,” Ademi said.

Meanwhile, the chairwoman of the “Jeta-Vita” association, Nafije Latifi, thanked all the women who shared their experiences and emphasized the role of solidarity in the healing process and emotional support.

“Today, in this significant month of October, the international month for the fight against breast cancer, we are gathered to honor women facing this disease and to reaffirm our commitment to a fairer, more humane, and sensitive healthcare system. We especially thank Vjosa Osmani Sadriu for her continuous support for our initiatives and for donating oncology kits for women in need for the past four years. This year, the number reached 640 packages. This is a testament to institutional and human solidarity,” Latifi emphasized.

The event concluded with a dance performance by children from the “Down Syndrome Kosova” association, marking the continuity of joint efforts between institutions, civil society, and citizens to raise public awareness and promote women’s health as a core value for society.