Lagoon hospitals engage residents on awareness walk to prevent breast cancer

INits bid to reduce the scourge of cancer in Nigeria, Lagoon hospitals, at the weekend, engaged residents of Victoria Island, Lagos on a breast cancer awareness walk on early detection, treatment, and the need for a reliable, permanent cure. The 6.8km walk, which was held in commemoration of the International Breast Cancer Awareness month, started and ended at the Lagoon Hospitals, Ikoyi facility with massive participation from residents, who received free breast moulds examination and breast cancer screenings, particularly the women. Nigerian women die of breast cancer, which is the most common, due to lack of access to accurate information, affordable screening, and treatment options. It is currently one of the leading causes of death among women and late detection is a major factor.

Every year, the month of October is used for breast cancer awareness to support women battling with breast cancer. Women are also educated and advised on early detection with free cancer screening done for all women

The Chief Executive Officer, Lagoon Hospitals, Mr. Rajeev Bhandari said the event was to create more awareness about the disease, noting “early detection is key, and as the leading healthcare service provider in Nigeria, we take it as our duty to educate the public, while also encouraging people to get screened.”

Also, the Clinical Director for Lagoon Hospitals, Dr. Ajibike Oyewumi stressed that due to the stigma attached, some women refuse to report to the health facilities and undergo treatment, adding that, if 90 per cent of cases are detected early, it could be treated and prevented.

Speaking on the importance of the walk, the Head of Business Development, Mr Franklyn Ovbigbahon said the hospital believes that the breast cancer walk would be a powerful and inspiring opportunity to unite with the community, to educate and raise awareness in a fun but also intentional way.