The Keur Massar Social Welfare Medical Center hosted a free breast and cervical cancer screening day, coinciding with the official launch of its new maternity ward. This initiative, led by the Penitentiary Administration, is part of its social programs promoting women's well-being and preventing gynecological cancers.

According to the chairman of the steering committee for social works of the Penitentiary Administration, Inspector Samba Yacine Diop, this activity aims to "accelerate the provision of care related to the Pink October campaign, for the benefit of women in the Penitentiary City and Keur Massar".

He noted that this was the second edition of this event, organized around the maternity ward of the medical center, which opened in January 2022. "This day is also an opportunity to highlight the social missions of the Prison Administration: to assist, support, and provide local healthcare at preferential rates to staff and their families," he emphasized. The center's head midwife, Marie Catherine Sène, welcomed the opening of the maternity ward, which she considers "more than necessary."

"This new facility improves the reception, care and working conditions for staff. It also ensures better functioning of the emergency department, both day and night," she explained.

Support for the national health policy

Presiding over the ceremony, the Director General of the Penitentiary Administration, Inspector Aliou Ciss, praised the initiative, which aligns with the national policy for the prevention and treatment of women's cancers. "These social programs aim to promote foresight, support, and mutual aid among prison staff. Through this day, we are contributing to the health and well-being of women in the prison complex and surrounding areas," he stated. The Director also noted that the Keur Massar medical center is now included on Senegal's national health map, following the signing of decree no. 4924 of March 12, 2025, by the Ministry of Health and Social Action.

Recent acquisitions at the center include a sterilization autoclave, a second delivery bed, a 33 KVA generator, and six new air conditioners to improve working conditions and ensure continuity of service. "The launch of this screening day demonstrates the Penitentiary Administration's commitment to always supporting its staff and their families, particularly on health issues," concluded Aliou Ciss.