By Lizzy Carr
The fight against breast cancer received a boost in Bauchi State as the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Bauchi Chapter, conducted free breast cancer screening for over 100 women and adolescent girls in Dungal community.
The event, which took place on Thursday, was part of MWAN’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about breast and cervical cancers — diseases that continue to pose serious public health challenges in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Umma-Hanni Ja’afar, President of MWAN Bauchi, said the exercise was designed to empower women and girls with vital knowledge about early detection and prevention.
“We are in Dungal to sensitize both men and women on the rising cases of cancer among women,” she said. “We want everyone to understand the importance of early detection — and we urge mothers to pass this knowledge on to their daughters.”
Dr. Ja’afar reaffirmed MWAN’s commitment to reaching rural and underserved communities, ensuring that no woman is left behind in the fight against cancer.
Representing the National President of MWAN, Dr. Zainab Kwaru, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Cancer Society (Bauchi Chapter), Dr. Habiba Ismail, emphasized the importance of early presentation at health facilities.
“Women should conduct regular breast self-examinations after each menstrual cycle,” she advised. “If you notice any unusual lump or nipple discharge, seek professional medical care immediately — don’t resort to self-medication or herbal treatments.”
Also present at the event, Mr. Sulaiman Ibrahim from the North East Development Commission (NEDC), assured continued support for healthcare initiatives across the sub-region, including the construction of health facilities and supply of medical equipment to vulnerable communities.
In his goodwill message, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Mohammed Sani Dambam, lauded MWAN’s initiative, describing it as “a vital step toward improving women’s health outcomes in Bauchi.”
Declaring the screening exercise open, the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Malaria, Dr. Adamu, also urged parents to ensure that girls aged 9–14 years receive the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine as a preventive measure against cervical cancer.
Through such community-based initiatives, MWAN continues to illuminate the path toward a cancer-free future for women in Bauchi and beyond. Read more on: www.krestnews.com