The African Women’s Cancer Awareness Association (AWCAA) has officially been launched in Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the fight against cancer.
The launch event, held in Abuja, was attended by cancer survivors, health practitioners, advocates, and government dignitaries united in their commitment to improving cancer awareness, prevention, treatment, and care in Nigeria.
Founded over two decades ago in the United States, AWCAA has played a pivotal role in supporting African women through breast cancer examinations, treatment, and awareness campaigns. With over 21 cancer awareness missions across Africa, the association has donated mammogram machines to hospitals and improved cancer care in Nigeria, Tanzania, Cameroon, Sierra Leone, and Sudan. By expanding into Nigeria, AWCAA aims to bridge the gap in cancer education, screening, and treatment, ensuring more women receive the support they need.
Speaking at the event, the CEO & founder of Medicaid Cancer Foundation and President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), Dr. Zainab Bagudu, emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in reducing cancer mortality rates, while stating that, “AWCAA Nigeria has come at a crucial time when collective action is needed to lower cancer-related deaths. I wish the association success in its mission to save lives.”
In her keynote address, the deputy governor of Rivers State, Prof. Ngozi Odu, also highlighted the urgency of tackling cancer in Nigeria, adding that, “Cancer is a growing public health concern that requires a united front. We must all ensure access to education, early detection, and quality treatment.”
Delivering her welcome address and an overview of AWCAA’s impact, the president and founder of AWCAA, Dr. Ify Nwabukwu, reiterated the need for a collaborative approach to cancer prevention and care. “Cancer is a family affair and must be treated as such. While early detection has been proven to reduce mortality rates, it is critical for stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare professionals, and organisations like AWCAA, to work together to sustain the fight against this disease,” Nwabukwu added.
Leading up to the official launch, AWCAA-N hosted a pre-launch event in Lagos on February 8 at Lo Studio, Victoria Island. The event, a women’s wellness brunch, featured a range of activities, including a Pilates session and a panel discussion with lifestyle influencers Angel Obasi and Joycee Awosika. They engaged in an insightful conversation on Body, Mind, and Beauty: The Self-Care Blueprint. Notable guests, including Nichole Chikwe, were also in attendance
The official launch event featured activities, including a panel session on Nigeria’s readiness and response to cancer, moderated by Dr Emmanuella Nwachukwu, with esteemed panellists including Dr Tessy Ahmadu, Dr Nwamaka Lasebikan, Dr Uchechukwu Nwokwu, and Hadiza A-Arome; a fashion parade featuring cancer survivors, symbolising strength, resilience, and hope in the fight against cancer; awards were presented to the keynote speakers to recognise their contributions to cancer advocacy; and the official launch ceremony, led by AWCAA Nigeria’s Vice President, Dr. Abiola Shotunde.
With its official presence in Nigeria, AWCAA will intensify its advocacy, screening programmes, and patient support efforts, ensuring more women receive the care and education they need to combat cancer effectively.
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