By Khalid Idris Doya The North-East Development Commission (NEDC), in collaboration with the Medical Women's Association o...
By Khalid Idris Doya
The North-East Development Commission (NEDC), in collaboration with the Medical Women's Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Bauchi State Chapter, has organised the 2025 Cancer Awareness Campaign in Bauchi to raise awareness about breast and cervical cancers, the most prevalent health challenges affecting women in society.
Speaking at the campaign held on Thursday in Dungal community of Bauchi witunyue theme "Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters," Dr. Ummahani Jafaru, President of MWAN Bauchi and a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, noted that October is globally recognised as Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a period dedicated to increasing awareness, encouraging screening, and promoting preventive healthcare among women.
"Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, while cervical cancer is the second most common. Sadly, timely treatment and access to care still remain major challenges for many women," Dr. Ummahani said.
She stressed that the goal of the awareness campaign was to educate women, encourage early screening, and promote prevention, as early detection significantly increases survival chances.
"Both breast and cervical cancers are preventable and curable, especially when detected early. We aim to bridge the gap in access to screening and ensure that every woman has the opportunity to protect her health and future," she added.
Dr. Ummahani cited alarming statistics, noting that Nigeria detected about 28,000 new breast cancer cases and 12,000 cervical cancer cases annually, with roughly 8,000 deaths linked to cervical cancer.
"These figures remind us of the urgent need for awareness, vaccination, early detection, and accessible treatment for all women," she said.
She commended the NEDC for sponsoring the awareness campaign across the six states of the North-East, describing the Commission's support as critical in reaching women at the grassroots with life-saving information.
"Together, we can create a future where no woman dies from preventable cancers," she said.
Also speaking, Dr. Habiba Isma'il of the ATBU Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, expressed concern that many women present late to hospitals often when their cancer has reached advanced stages.
"At that point, little can be done in terms of cure. We can only offer palliative care to relieve pain and improve quality of life," she said.
Dr. Habiba emphasised the importance of recognising early warning signs of breast and cervical cancers, teaching participants how to perform breast self-examinations, and encouraging regular Pap smear or VIA screenings.
"Early detection saves lives. If cancers are diagnosed early, they can be treated and cured. But if we wait too long, our options become limited,” she cautioned.
She further explained that women should examine their breasts monthly, preferably after their menstrual cycle and seek immediate medical attention if they notice any lumps, skin dimpling, redness, nipple discharge, or changes in breast shape.
Representing the NEDC Coordinator in Bauchi, Sulaiman Ibrahim reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to improving healthcare and women's well-being across the North-East region.
"The NEDC remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance development across sectors, including health and education, among others" he stated.
The village head of Dungal, Alhaji Adamu Abdullahi, thanked MWAN and NEDC for choosing his community to host the campaign, describing it as a life-changing outreach that would empower women with vital health knowledge.
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