World Heart Day and Pink October activities promote early screening

A series of activities, including mass screening for cardiovascular diseases, breast and cervical cancers, awareness campaigns, community health talks, the distribution of new health education materials, and exhibitions promoting healthy lifestyles, will be held across the island to mark World Heart Day 2026, observed annually on 29 September, and the beginning of Pink October.

The Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo, made the announcement this morning at the launch of screening and counselling for non-communicable diseases, as well as breast and cervical cancer screening, organised by the Ministry of Health and Wellness in collaboration with Mauritius Telecom in Port Louis.

Among the guests present were the Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Dr Avinash Ramtohul; the Junior Minister of Health and Wellness, Mrs Anishta Babooram; the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative to Mauritius, Dr Abdou Salam Gueye; the Chairman of Mauritius Telecom, Mr Sarat Dutt Lallah; and the Chief Executive Officer of Mauritius Telecom, Mr Veemal Gungadin.

In his address, Minister Bachoo highlighted the theme “Don’t Miss a Beat”, which seeks to raise awareness of cardiovascular diseases, the world’s leading cause of death. He deplored that cardiovascular diseases account for approximately 34% of all deaths in Mauritius and stressed the importance of prevention, early detection, recognising symptoms and seeking timely treatment.

Regarding Pink October, he noted that around 600 new breast cancer cases are recorded annually, with cancer remaining the leading cause of death among women in Mauritius. He expressed concern that 250 to 300 new cancer cases are registered each month, underscoring the need for greater awareness, screening and early detection.

Mr Bachoo also stated that the Ministry is seeking the assistance of Indian specialists and oncologists to strengthen cancer treatment and enable more patients to receive care in Mauritius. He noted that 1,026 cardiac surgeries were performed in 2025, compared with 994 in 2024, reflecting increased access to specialised cardiac care. He encouraged the public to make greater use of the free screening activities to facilitate timely diagnosis, treatment and care.

Minister Ramtohul said that Artificial Intelligence has significant potential to enhance medical care, while eHealth applications can provide citizens with accessible health information and timely advice. He moreover referred to the collaboration between the Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation and the Ministry of Health and Wellness in advancing digital healthcare initiatives.

Junior Minister Babooram dwelt on the importance of greater awareness, early detection and timely prevention. She encouraged the public to make greater use of facilities and services available in healthcare institutions, including breastfeeding corners and targeted therapies.

Mr Gueye said that the WHO places importance on addressing major cardiovascular risk factors through healthier lifestyles and preventive measures. He also indicated that the organisation will continue to support Mauritius in developing stronger health policies.

For their part, Mr Lallah and Mr Gungadin spoke of Mauritius Telecom’s role in promoting the wellbeing of its employees and the wider community through educational and preventive activities. They said the company could reach a wider section of the population through health campaigns that provide information on healthy eating, physical activity and the importance of regular health checks.

29 September 2026

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Topics: Health