Breast Cancer: NGO launches campaign in Abuja

On Oct 2, 2023

Pink Ray Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation, has launched a campaign against widespread of breast cancer, in order to combat it and save lives of women. Ms. Gloria Nweze, the Founder of the Organisation made this known in an interview with the Newsmen, during its official launch in Abuja.

According to her: “It is necessary to empower Nigerian women on breast cancer, through the dissemination of accurate information, prevention strategies, early detection and timely treatment. Our mission is to promote early detection of breast cancer, spread awareness and eliminate the stigma surrounding the disease, through public enlightenment and education. We are also committed to encouraging and supporting women with breast cancer to ensure they don’t go into depression,” she said.

Nweze, also added that as a breast cancer survivor with a vast experience, she had observed the challenges in its awareness and management,

She explained that she noticed that the misconceptions surrounding the disease are causing unnecessary fear and delayed medical attention.

“Early detection is vital, and we want to ensure that women can detect and manage the disease effectively. This initiative aims to make basic Breast Cancer detection, accessible to Nigerian women in both urban and rural areas. Through sustained awareness campaigns, Pink Ray aims to change perceptions and provide women with the knowledge and support they need to combat Breast Cancer,” she added.

She said the NGO aspires to assist women in securing fund for their treatments, thus emphasising the importance of a strong support system. She revealed that there will be a Free Breast Screening Exercise on Oct. 27, in Abuja.

Furthermore, she appealed to key stakeholders to support the cause as it will greatly enhance efforts to combat breast cancer.

In his remarks, Dr. Ochayi Joseph, a medical practitioner, explained that breast cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the breast and can affect both females and males.

“Family history, early menstruation and late menopause which exposes a woman to release more hormones like estrogen during their cycles. Use of contraceptives, limited breastfeeding, smoking cigarettes and alcohol consumption among others are some of the causes of breast cancer, ” Dr Joseph said.

NAN/Wumi