In a bid to raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection, the Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO) on Thursday held a one-day cancer sensitisation and free screening programme in Edo State.
The event, which was held in line with the global commemoration of the 2025 World Cancer Day, brought together different health professionals to educate the participants who were mostly women on the importance of regular check-ups, healthy lifestyles and early diagnosis in the fight against breast and cervical cancer.
In her address, Barr. (Mrs.) Faith Ojo, President and Chief Operating Officer of LAPO Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), said that the event was an opportunity for the organisation to reaffirm its commitment to combat the pervasive disease (cancer).
Barr. Ojo maintained that LAPO have over the years recognised the intricate link between health challenges and socio-economic status in the society.
She noted that since 1987, the organisation has been dedicated to the social, health and economic empowerment of the poor and vulnerable in the country.
According to the LAPO NGO President and Chief Operating Officer, the Organisation’s holistic approach addresses not only the economic dimensions of poverty but also the health disparities that often accompany it.
“We have conducted extensive health education programs, free medical screenings, and referral services, focusing on diseases that disproportionately affect low-income populations.
“Our malaria prevention and education programs, for instance, have saved lives, reduced school absenteeism, and improved maternal and child health in target communities.
“Recognising that economic stability is crucial for health, LAPO has provided microfinance services to empower women, youth, and small-scale entrepreneurs.
“By facilitating access to financial resources, we have enabled individuals to improve their livelihoods and, by extension, their health outcomes.
“For over 25 years, LAPO has been a consistent advocate for policy reforms in poverty reduction, health, education, and economic empowerment,” she said
Speaking on the accomplishments of the LAPO-C4 Project since 2016, Ojo disclosed that about 3,281,723 target community members have been reached with cancer enlightenment messages through community outreaches, printed enlightenment handbills, radio and television jingles, bus branding and billboard messages across target states.
She added that a total of 45 partner health facilities have been upgraded for free basic screening services through the training of 49 health workers and monthly supply of screening materials
“Beneficiaries have been screened for breast, cervical, prostate and childhood cancers, and many referred for further screening and treatment.
“The project equally facilitated the strengthening of community capacity for cancer control through the establishment of community committees or groups for cancer control.
“Through the community level screening and referral services, the project has identified some early stages of malignant tumours which were successfully treated due to their early detection”, she revealed.
Ojo emphasised that In alignment with this year’s theme, “United by Unique,” LAPO is committed to understanding that each cancer journey is unique, we aim to provide tailored support services that address the specific needs of individuals and families affected by cancer”.
On LAPO’s collaborative efforts, Ojo stated that by partnering with healthcare providers, government agencies, and other stakeholders, LAPO strives to create a comprehensive support system that addresses the multifaceted challenges posed by cancer.
She assured that LAPO will continue to engage with communities to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options, as well as ensure that information is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Sensitising the participants, Jedafe Diane Matron, Chief Nursing Officer (Matron), New Era Clinic in Benin, said that statistics have revealed that more women are dying of breast and cervical cancer owing to poor knowledge about the disease.
Diane enlightened the women about the danger inherent in late detection of breast and cervical cancer, adding that early detection is key to tackling the disease.
“We always advise our mothers to come for free cancer screening at least twice a year in this facility as LAPO is supporting the clinic in carrying out free cancer screening. Breast screening can be done by oneself at home by checking for any abnormal growth, or bleeding in the breast
“Regular check-ups can help to detect Human Papillomavirus (HPV), an infection that causes warts on various parts of the body, depending on the strain and this can be quickly freezer so as to make it inactive.
“For prevention, we must maintain personal hygiene, regular check-ups, and proper treatment of Virginia infection,” she said.
In separate interviews, two women, who benefitted from the screening, Cynthia Ajayi and Gift Osayamwen, said they have never heard of screening for cancer despite being married for years.
The dou commended LAPO for the initiative, adding that the programme has further expanded their knowledge about breast and cervical cancer as well as the need for them to be going for regular check-ups.
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