By Sumaila Ogbaje/Michael Ajayi
The President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, has called for a unified front in tackling the menace of cancer in the society.
Musa made the call at an event to commemorate the 2025 World Cancer Day, with the theme, “Unified by Unique”, on Wednesday in Abuja.
She emphasised that the fight against cancer required collective efforts to raise awareness, fund treatment, and support affected individuals.
The DEPOWA president stated that the financial burden cancer places on families were high and out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria.
“The battle against cancer calls for collective efforts to raise awareness, fund, and support in this fight,” she said.
“No one should face cancer alone, and it is through unity, love, and compassion that we will make the greatest strides, as our theme, ‘Unified by Unique’,” she said.
Mrs Musa said that DEPOWA had continued to champion cancer awareness initiatives over the years, including free screenings, financial assistance for patients, and health outreach programs.
She also commended healthcare professionals for their dedication to exceptional care and urged individuals to prioritize early detection through regular screenings.
In her presentation, Dr. Chito Nelson, CEO of Arabella Women’s Health/Tabitha Medical Center, stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in bridging the gap in cancer care.
Nelson stated that many cancer deaths in Nigeria could be prevented through improved healthcare infrastructure, early screening, and increased public awareness.
“Our biggest challenge remains access to timely diagnosis and treatment. Many patients present at advanced stages when treatment options are limited.
“We need more investment in early detection and affordable care,” she said.
Mrs. Fatima Salihu, a pharmacologist and member of DEPOWA, lauded the efforts of the association and emphasised the importance of preventive measures.
Salihu said that the standing cancer screening initiative launched by DEPOWA had ensured that at least 20 women undergo mammograms and screening monthly.
She added that DEPOWA had expanded its cancer prevention efforts to include fitness campaigns and humanitarian outreach, benefiting over 52 patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi.
“Our goal is to empower communities, inspire action, and reinforce the importance of early detection, equitable healthcare, and continuous research,” she said.
Mrs. Chinyere Ifezue, a breast cancer survivor, recounted her journey and the challenges of seeking treatment.
Ifezue lamented the stigma surrounding cancer patients, recalling how some attributed her illness to bitterness over the loss of her son.
She urged society to show more empathy and support to those battling the disease instead of judging them.
“The treatment was harsh, but I had to trust in God and follow through,” she said.
Another survivor, Mrs Temitope Samuel, said she initially ignored a lump she discovered, attributing it to her menstrual cycle.
She said that the persistent symptoms led her to seek medical attention and was diagnosed with breast cancer.
“I was in denial. I spent money on herbal treatments, hoping the lump would disappear,” she recalled.
Samuel also added that she faced resistance from her husband regarding surgery, but she ultimately prioritised her health. (NAN)
