The United Nations ECOSOC, together with a cancer control organisation in the North-Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria, LEAH Foundation, has launched a prostate cancer screening project in Kwara State to mark World Cancer Day.
Speaking with journalists in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, on Monday, the founder of LEAH Foundation, Deaconess Omolewa Ahmed, said that prostate cancer, along with breast and cervical cancers, are three of the most common cancers affecting men and women in the region.
Deaconess Ahmed, who said that prostate cancer accounts for 29% of male cancer cases, added that it is one of the most common cancers among men in Nigeria.
“Tragically, 80% of prostate cancer cases result in death due to late detection, underscoring the urgent need for early screening and awareness,” she said.
Deaconess Ahmed, who is the wife of the former governor of Kwara State, also said that the Prostate Cancer Screening project aims to provide free screening services to 20,000 to 30,000 men aged 40 and above across all religious, educational, and social strata in Kwara State.
She said that the Prostate Cancer Awareness Initiative will be launched on World Cancer Day on 4 February 2025, at the Ilorin Stadium, adding that the project will subsequently be launched in Kwara South and Kwara North districts of the state.
“The launch events will take place in Offa town on 11 February and Tsaragi on 13 February 2025, respectively,” she said.
She also said that the foundation has partnered with some of Nigeria’s influential Nollywood celebrities, adding that they have agreed to serve as Awareness Champions to help raise awareness about prostate cancer and promote early detection and treatment.
“To extend the reach and impact of this project, LEAH Foundation seeks the support of individuals and organisations committed to societal development,” she said, adding that, “sponsorship will enable us to provide free screening services to thousands of men, promoting early detection and reducing mortality rates associated with prostate cancer.
“As a transparent and accountable organisation, we pledge to provide detailed reports on all funds utilised. Together, we can make a significant difference in the fight against cancer and save countless lives.”
The founder of LEAH Foundation, who said that the foundation had been at the forefront of advocating for early detection and screening of breast, cervical, and prostate cancers in the region, added that the cancers remained the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, primarily due to late presentation, lack of awareness, low uptake of screening services where available, and cultural or religious beliefs.
“In recognition of our impactful work, LEAH Foundation is a proud member of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC).”
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