Varsity Women, Imo First Lady, Others Advocate Early Cancer Detection

The Yakubu Gowon University (University of Abuja Women’s Association), the first lady of Imo State, Barr Chioma Uzodimma and other stakeholders have intensified calls for early cancer detection and prevention.

They made the call at a high-level Cancer Awareness Programme, organised by the association at the Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja, yesterday.

The event, organised under the theme “United By Unique: Know It, Check It, Act Early,” emphasised the urgency of tackling the rising burden of cancer in Nigeria through awareness, screening and collective action.

Imo First Lady who is the chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), described the initiative as both timely and critical in addressing a growing public health challenge.

According to her, breast and cervical cancers are the most common among women, while prostate cancer accounts for a significant proportion of cancer-related deaths among men, stressing that many of these cases are preventable or treatable if detected early.

“This is why awareness, education and access to timely screening are not optional. They are essential pillars of an effective cancer control strategy,” she said.

Uzodimma further called on young people to take responsibility for their health, urging students to adopt healthy lifestyles, avoid harmful habits and take advantage of preventive services such as vaccination and routine screening.

“To women, prioritise regular breast examinations and cervical screening. To men, remain vigilant and seek medical advice when you notice unusual changes. Let us replace fear with knowledge, silence with conversation and stigma with support,” she said.

She added that a cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence but a call to action.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, commended the Women’s Association for spearheading the initiative.

He described cancer as a chronic non-communicable disease with significant social and economic consequences, noting that early detection remains the most effective way to reduce its burden.

“Awareness and early detection are key. When cancer is identified at an early stage, treatment improve significantly. Prevention remains the best approach,” he said.

Fawehinmi emphasised the influential role of women in driving social change, noting that their leadership in the campaign would have far-reaching impact across communities and policy spaces, urging men to become more involved in the fight against cancer.

Also speaking, chairperson of the Ministers’ Wives Association, Hajiya Bilkisu Kyari, said cancer should no longer be viewed as a death sentence.

“Prevention is better than cure, and early detection makes all the difference. When we speak up, we save lives, and when we support one another, we give hope,” she said.

She encouraged participants to share knowledge within their communities.

Patroness of the association, Dr Hadeezat Omotayo Fawehinmi, said the programme was designed to inspire advocacy and dismantle stigma through education, survivor testimonies and practical demonstrations.

“Cancer affects us all, but together we can bridge the care gap, dispel myths and promote healthy choices. Knowledge saves lives, and early detection offers hope,” she said.

Also speaking, president-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, called for increased research and improved data collection to strengthen Nigeria’s response to cancer.

She urged universities to take the lead in developing research-driven solutions and encouraged both men and women to undergo regular screening.

“There is a need for better data and stronger research programmes to bridge existing gaps. Cancer is not only a women’s issue; men must also be actively involved,” she said.

Representing the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Dr Nandi Tokkit highlighted systemic challenges affecting cancer care in low- and middle-income countries, including late diagnosis, inadequate infrastructure, shortage of skilled personnel and high treatment costs.

She noted that many patients face catastrophic financial burdens due to out-of-pocket expenses, often leading to treatment abandonment. She, however, emphasised that these challenges are not insurmountable.

“With targeted and resource-appropriate strategies focused on prevention, early detection, improved data systems and affordable treatment, millions of lives can be saved,” she said.