Nov 29, 2007 - Breast Cancer Screening And Awareness Programme At Iwaya Primary Health Centre, Yaba
Today, we are gathered here in Yaba Local Council Development Area in continuation of the efforts of the Lagos State Government to raise the awareness level of the people especially women on the scourge of Breast Cancer.
The commitment which the State Government has shown including the host of this event, Yaba Local Council Development Area towards this screening and awareness campaign is a demonstration of the importance attached to the general well being of women in Lagos State.
I therefore want to commend the efforts of the Honourable Commissioner for Health Dr. Jide Idris, Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Mrs. Joke Orelope Adefulire and their hardworking teams especially the health officials. I also commend the Executive Secretary of Yaba Local Council Development Area, Hon. Shabi for accepting to host this very important event.
The deadly nature of breast cancer is not in doubt. Indeed, a lot of precious lives have been lost while families have been made to experience the pains of poverty arising from the enormous resources spent on caring for members with breast cancer.
The good news however, for those of us who have not become victims is that Breast Cancer can be cured only if the symptoms are detected early enough. The challenge therefore, which is the essence of this screening and awareness exercise, is to ensure that our people especially those at the grassroots are given adequate education and enlightenment on the nature of breast cancer, the simple process of self breast examination and immediate steps to take when in doubt. This is the only way we can effectively address the problem of ignorance and misconception which have been identified as the major factor responsible for the high prevalence of the disease.
I pray that all our women will take advantage of the various opportunities that have been provided by the State government including this screening exercise and the services of well trained health care providers at designated hospitals to protect themselves against breast cancer. My prayer is that we shall all live long in good health to reap the fruits of our labour as mothers, homemakers and nation builders.
Once again, I commend the sustained collaborative efforts of both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in the fight against breast cancer in Lagos State. I also appreciate the support which this exercise has continued to enjoy from non-governmental organisations including COPE, BLOOM, COMPASS among others.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it is on this note that I flag off the Breast Cancer Awareness and Screening Programme to the glory of God and good health of our women.
Remember, Feel Your Breasts, It Helps.
I thank you for your kind attention and wish everyone Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year in advance.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State