As part of activities marking the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a Non Governmental Organization, NGO, the Oyenike Oyekan Foundation has called on Nigerians to “speak up” and discard the culture of silence surrounding breast cancer.
The NGO’s Media Consultant, Mr. Nelson Ekujumi, the foundation emphasized that breast cancer is not a death sentence, stressing that early detection remains key to successful treatment and survival.
The NGO which aligned its activities with this year’s global theme by the World Health Organization, WHO, “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters”, says the diversity of experiences underscores the need for equitable and quality healthcare for all.
The foundation noted that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, estimating 2.3 million cases in 2022.
WHO also stated that 670,000 women were killed by breast cancer in 2022 alone which makes it a disease that must be given the necessary attention it deserves so as to save lives which is irreplaceable.
“Oyenike Oyekan foundation in keying into this life saving exercise has been unrelenting in preaching the gospel that breast cancer is a disease that affects women majorly, who are 50 years and above, though younger women and men are also at risk and the only way to reverse the mortality ratio by the disease, is through regular checkup in order to detect it early, which is a key in the fight against cancer.
The statement appeals to Nigerians to dispel myths and superstitions linking breast cancer to spiritual attacks or curses, warning that such beliefs hinder early diagnosis and effective treatment.It also calls on government agencies, corporate bodies, and other stakeholders to intensify advocacy and support for cancer awareness initiatives.
The statement urges governments at all levels to make breast cancer screening free and accessible in public health institutions to facilitate early detection to save more lives.
Reporting by Yemisi Dada