Biedrība VITA

Founded in 1993, Biedrība VITA is a non-profit association based in Rīga, Latvia working on health, mental health.

Biedrība VITA is a Latvian women's volunteer association and the first oncology patient non-governmental organisation in Latvia, founded in Riga in October 1993. It supports, unites and educates breast cancer patients and their relatives. Its activities include peer support, psychological support, lectures and online educational sessions, breast cancer awareness and screening campaigns such as 'Pārbaudi krūtis, lai dzīvotu!', and advocacy with health authorities, including the national health ministry and the National Health Service. The association is a member of the ONKOALIANSE alliance of oncology patient organisations. Its founder, surgical oncologist Dr. Sarmīte Baltkāje, set its foundations. The association publishes patient stories and articles on breast cancer and invites women who have been diagnosed to share their experiences.