Wife of the Ebonyi Governor, Mrs Mary-Maudline Nwifuru has charged women to always engage in regular medical checkups to combat breast and cervical cancers.
According to her, early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Mrs Nwifuru stated this while flagging off the campaign against breast/cervical cancer with the theme “Living Beyond Cancer.” held at the Women Development Centre, Abakaliki at the weekend.
She described the disease as a societal problem that needs everyone’s attention and called on stakeholders in the state to create awareness and educate the rural populace on the risk factors of the disease and how to reduce the scourge in society.
“Breast cancer is a silent enemy that affects women across all ages and social backgrounds. We must take proactive steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
“Regular checkups should not be seen as an option but as a duty to ourselves and our families. By doing so, we can detect any abnormalities early on and increase the chances of successful treatment,” Mrs Nwifuru stated.
In separate remarks, The Chairman of the occasion, Dr Daniel Umezurike, and the health commissioner, Dr Moses Ekuma, said the three levels of cancer prevention included the primary, secondary and tertiary levels, urging women to visit the 171 primary health centers for medical checks.
The commissioner for women’s affairs, Mrs Felicia Nwakpuma and the traditional ruler, Eze Sunday Oketa promised to sensitise the rural populace on the importance of cancer screening.
The event featured a series of lectures aimed to dispel myths, provide accurate information about the disease, and educate women on self-examination techniques.
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