Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Health director Motusa Tuileama Nua took part in the “wave” in Tafuna last Friday’s kicking off the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is designated the month of October.

“Join us throughout the month to honor survivors, remember those lost to the disease, and to support the progress we are making together to defeat breast cancer,” declared DoH in a public awareness message.

A separate “wave” was also held last Friday in Utulei for Bay Area participants, which included Lt. Gov. Talauega Eleasalo Ale and his wife.

In his National Breast Cancer Awareness month proclamation, Gov. Lemanu Peleti Palepoi Sialega Mauga noted that while considerable progress has been made in the fight against breast cancer, “it remains the most frequently diagnosed type of non-skin cancer and the second leading diagnosed cancer among women of American Samoa”.

“As we display ribbons and banners on our lapels, offices and storefront we also support those courageously fighting breast cancer and honor the lives lost to this devastating disease,” the governor said.

During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, “we stand with our mothers, daughters, sisters and friends, and we recognize all who have joined their loved ones in fighting their battle, as well as the advocates and health care providers whose care and hard work gives hope to those living with breast cancer.”

“By educating ourselves and supporting each other, we will improve the qualify of life for all affected by breast cancer,” the governor said in his proclamation.

DoH has set up various programs throughout the month and the events are updated and posted to its Facebook page.