Abuja: The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, has urged Nigerians to end the culture of silence and stigma surrounding breast cancer. Akume made the call on Saturday in Abuja at the launch of the Mariam-Atswandeh Cancer Support Foundation (MACSF) and a Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium. The event, themed 'From Awareness to Action: Building Resilient Communities Against Cancer,' emphasized the importance of early detection and community engagement.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Akume, represented by Mr. Francis Ikyenge, Director in the SGF's office, stated that awareness and education are crucial in reducing breast cancer cases and fatalities. He emphasized the need to break the culture of silence and stigma, noting that regular self-examinations, screenings, and open conversations can save lives. Additionally, Akume highlighted the necessity of providing not only medical care but also emotional, financial, and social support to survivors and patients.
Akume further noted that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, prioritizes cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Efforts are being made to expand screening programs, improve access to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and work with partners to reduce patients' financial burdens. He underscored the importance of partnerships with organizations like MACSF, civil society, faith-based groups, and the private sector in making progress.
The SGF commended the foundation for integrating awareness, advocacy, and direct support in alignment with the government's vision of a healthier population. Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, represented by Dr. Uche Nwokwu, National Coordinator, National Cancer Control Programme, urged screening organizations to provide follow-up care for diagnosed patients. He cautioned that some patients succumb not to cancer itself, but to the psychological trauma following a diagnosis.
Dr. Mya Ngon, WHO Team Lead for Disease Prevention and Control, remarked that the establishment of the MACS Foundation indicates a growing community resolve against breast cancer. She stated that public awareness and early detection are vital to ensuring no woman is left behind due to lack of access or information.
The Imo governor's wife, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, represented by Mrs. Adaora Iwuanyanwu, commented on the timeliness and impact of the foundation's launch. She stressed that awareness alone is insufficient, advocating for urgent, compassionate, and collaborative action. As chair of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), Uzodimma pledged to collaborate with the foundation to expand screening and reduce stigma.
Mrs. Mariam Salami, a breast cancer survivor and convener of the foundation, encouraged patients to seek help and avoid isolation, emphasizing that cancer does not have the final word. She pointed out that early detection saves lives and that no one should face cancer alone. Salami explained that the foundation conducts outreach in hospitals, schools, and markets to promote early detection and break cultural barriers.
According to GLOBOCAN 2022, Nigeria recorded 32,278 new breast cancer cases and 16,332 deaths, while Africa had over 198,000 new cases and 91,000 deaths. Globally, breast cancer accounted for about 2.3 million new cases and 666,000 deaths, representing nearly 24 percent of all female cancers. October is commemorated globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.