As part of its “Prevention as a Guarantee” project, the WMG Foundation has organized a workshop titled “Strong, Healthy, Successful”. The event, focused on breast cancer prevention, was specifically designed for members of the Serbian Association of Businesswomen, with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle habits. The “Prevention as a Guarantee” project is carried out with the institutional support of the Ministry of Health, as well as partnerships with Wireless Media Group (WMG), pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, and The Milica Centre women’s association. The initiative seeks to improve public health and highlight the significance of preventive healthcare.
The workshop was opened by Irena Petrović, Director of the WMG Foundation, and Sanja Popović Pantić, President of the Serbian Association of Businesswomen, both of whom underscored the vital role of prevention in the fight against breast cancer.
“Today, we are addressing businesswomen, who are often overwhelmed with numerous responsibilities at work and home, leading them to neglect their health. The goal of this workshop is to help women overcome their fears and misconceptions about preventive check-ups and self-examinations. We want to encourage them to prioritize regular screenings to detect any potential changes in time,” stated Irena Petrović.
Sanja Popović Pantić, President of the Serbian Association of Businesswomen, emphasized that the Association has created a supportive environment where women stand by each other in all aspects of life, particularly during difficult times such as illness, fostering trust and mutual assistance. “We are truly pleased to be here today, as the least we can do for ourselves and our loved ones is to attend regular check-ups. Over the past 26 years, our association has built a strong support network among women, which has been crucial in overcoming challenges,” Popović Pantić noted.
Through expert lectures, interactive sessions, and practical advice, participants were introduced to various aspects of breast cancer prevention. Dr Marija Andrijić, PhD, psychologist and integrative psychotherapist from the Institute of Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, addressed the emotional barriers that often prevent women from attending preventive screenings. She also highlighted the importance of psychological well-being in reducing the risk of malignant diseases. “Fear is natural, but when it becomes overwhelming, it can prevent women from undergoing preventive check-ups. In our society, there is still a widespread fear of discovering an illness, leading to denial and avoidance. It is crucial to acknowledge this fear but also to learn how to manage and overcome it,” Marija Andrijić explained.
Professor Dragana Đilas, radiology specialist and President of the Serbian Senology Association, discussed the importance of regular screening and how lifestyle and overall health influence the risk of developing breast cancer. During her presentation, she provided clear guidelines on when and which screening methods should be used, depending on age and other risk factors.
“Breast cancer is the most common malignant disease among women and can occur at any age, though it is most prevalent in women over 50. This is why regular preventive check-ups are essential. Women with no symptoms are advised to have their first breast examination at the age of 30, preferably an ultrasound, which is completely safe and radiation-free. Ultrasound is quick, cost-effective, and efficient, but it is important that it is conducted by experienced radiologists. After the age of 40, a combination of mammography and ultrasound is recommended, while mammography becomes the primary screening method after the age of 50. Women at higher risk, such as those with dense gland tissue or a family history of cancer, are advised to undergo MRI scans, which, although more expensive and time-consuming, do not involve radiation,” Professor Dragana Đilas explained.
Vesna Bondžić, President of The Milica Centre, shared her personal experience with breast cancer, stressing the importance of early diagnosis. She also conducted a hands-on demonstration on a model, teaching participants the correct method for breast self-examination and offering crucial advice on monitoring their health. The participants had the opportunity to feel a simulated lump on the model, helping them recognise breast changes that require urgent medical evaluation.
Through the “Prevention as a Guarantee” project, the WMG Foundation will continue to organise similar activities and initiatives aimed at raising awareness about preventive healthcare and empowering women to make their health a top priority.
