The Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre announced the official start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month yesterday.

The cancer health charity is highlighting the importance of early intervention through the theme of “Hey Breast Cancer, let me tell you something”.

Lynne Woolridge, the chief executive of the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre, said that the centre would also offer a new breast cancer education programme called Know Your Lemons.

She explained that the campaign helps to highlight risk factors, signs, symptoms and screening guidelines for men and women.

Ms Woolridge added: “In collaboration with the Global Education partner behind the Know Your Lemons campaign, we now have staff trained to provide interactive hands-on presentations.

“Presentations are free and can be requested through our website.”

The announcement was made during a press conference at the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre in Devonshire.

Ms Woolridge said that the centre had received enough donations towards their Equal Access Fund to give mammograms to 222 women who would not have been able to afford the procedure.

She added that the fund also assisted with biopsies and radiation treatments for those without health insurance.

Ms Woolridge also announced the 23rd annual BF&M Breast Cancer Walk on October 16 at Barr’s Bay Park in Hamilton.

John Wright, the president and chief executive of BF&M, said: “Initiatives like Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the walk help us all in the fight to prevent, detect and treat cancer.

“As the leading healthcare provider in Bermuda, we at BF&M are committed to playing our part in promoting wellness in the community and encouraging people to take control of their health.”

Jason Hayward, the junior health minister, urged women over 40 years old or with a family history of breast cancer to have regular screenings.

He added: “It is important to know that you don’t have to wait until you reach screening age to start learning about cancer.”