Stakeholders advocate awareness campaign as solution, prevention of breast cancer

As Kaduna State joins the rest of the world in creating awareness on breast cancer, stakeholders have Identified Awareness as the solution to the prevention, detection and treatment of breast cancer in Nigeria.

The stakeholders which included the Kaduna State deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, Dr. Idris Baba, health specialist officer in charge of UNICEF office Kaduna and the project manager for the transformation of Access Bank and Fifth Chukker Maraban Jos, Abiodun Adebayo identified the solutions at an awareness workshop to mark the breast cancer awareness month organized by Fifth Chukker/Access Bank, UNICEF, MCF, Raise Foundation and Keystone Bank among others and held at Kangimi Resort, Maraban Jos, Kaduna.

Speaking at the occasion, the deputy Governor Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe says the State Government under the leadership of Senator Uba Sani has strengthened its resolve in the fight against breast cancer, noting that the cancer walk earlier embarked on underscores the importance of physical activities in both prevention and recovery.

“Breast Cancer affects millions of people around the globe and according to statistics, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their life time”, she said.

Speaking in an interview with Newsmen, the UNICEF representative Dr. Idris Baba assured of the continuous support and collaboration of UNICEF in creating awareness towards tackling the disease.

While in her remarks, the project Manager for the Transformation of Access Bank and Fifth Chukker Abiodun Adebayo said the essence of the event was to create awareness and to make people understand the importance of self examination and testing which according to her can go a long way in making a difference.

She also commended all the partners of Fifth Chukker for their support and collaboration over the years which had assisted women requiring additional medical care and support following their screening.

“Today marks yet another milestone in our efforts at creating awareness and offer screenings and learn life saving informations about breast cancer. Your presence and support will continue to drive this important mission forward”. She said.

A Breast Cancer survivor Mrs Phoebe Sukai Yayi who was also a former permanent secretary in the state spoke on her experience, she also informed the gathering that Breast Cancer is not a death sentence especially when detected early.

“I am a survivor and when I was diagnosed I was emotionally down, the people around me cried, but I told myself that I will win this fight. The support you get from your family and loved once will definitely make a difference, early testing and diagnosis is the solution”. Mrs Sukai Yayi said.

The Kaduna State Commissioner of Human Services and Social Development Hajiya Rabi Salisu commended Fifth Chukker and Access Bank for organizing the event, she however called for more awareness especially in the rural areas.

Some participants and students who spoke to Newsmen also commended the organizers of the event adding that programs like this will definitely go a long way in creating more awareness because it is the first line of defence.

Highlights of the event was free breast Cancer screening as well as remarks from various stakeholders who graced the occasion.