NAOWA: 7m Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Unlikely to Get Proper Treatment

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

The Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) has taken a vigorous awareness campaign on breast and cervical cancer to the 3rd Armoured Division of the Nigerian Army, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, Plateau.

As part of the campaign, NAOWA embarked on a cancer awareness walk and public lecture to mark 2023 Breast Cancer Day, lamenting that more than seven million women diagnosed with breast cancer in recent years might lack proper detection and treatment measures.
Chairwoman of NAOWA, Mrs Fibishola Abubakar, said global studies indicated that in 2020, about 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 died of the deadly disease.

Abubakar stated, “Public health education is a crucial tool to raise awareness among women and their families, ensuring they understand the importance of early detection.”

While commending NAOWA President, Mrs. Mariya Lagbaja, and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3rd Armoured Division, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, Abubakar urged all hands to be on deck to reduce the scourge of breast cancer in Nigeria.

Presenting a talk on the prevalence, risk factors, and prevention of cervical cancer, a midwife, Mrs. Amarachi Favor, emphasised the vital role of regular papilloma smear screening, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine, and early detection in mitigating the disease.

Mrs. Judith Onuoha, a staff nurse, emphasised the importance of regular clinical check-ups and mammograms. She also cleared misconceptions about the disease and urged women to take charge of their breast health.

Meanwhile, Dr. Akom Bassey and Major E. Effiong explored the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures against prostate and liver cancers, respectively, highlighting the role of good diets and healthy lifestyles in reducing risks, including regular exercise and medical check-ups.

Warning against smoking and alcoholism, the experts said such practices could make individuals vulnerable to cancer, stressing the benefits of early detection in reducing patients’ morbidity.