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Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (R), putting the HIV Awareness wrist band on Mrs. Joke Orelope-Adefulire (L) during the Breast Cancer Screening.


Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (L), discussing with other participants during the Breast Cancer Screening & Awareness Programme At Ajeromi LGA.

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Apr 17, 2008 - Breast Cancer Screening And Awareness Programme At Ajeromi Local Government Secretariat

I am very delighted to be here today in Ajeromi Local Government in furtherance of the State Government ongoing efforts to raise general awareness of the populace especially women on breast cancer.

 

Current statistics have shown that over one million women are diagnosed of cancer worldwide every year. It is also estimated that over the next 25 years , about 25 million women around the world will be diagnosed with breast cancer, a disease that has been identified as the most common cause of cancer related death among women worldwide.

 

Although, the incidence rates of breast cancer is said to be lowest in Africa and Asia, the fact still remains that the disease remains a major health challenge as shown by the number of lives that have been lost to the disease.

 

This screening and awareness programme was initiated by the State Government to give women hope by teaching them about the things they can do to protect themselves from breast cancer. This programme seeks to emphasise the importance of early detection through breast self examination and other processes including mammography which I am informed is available at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital and Orile Agege General Hospital.

 

The major challenge in the fight against breast cancer is getting the right information about the disease as well as steps to be taken to protect oneself to as many people as possible.

 

There is need to reappraise our strategies with a view to ensuring that this message is taken to every home, school, workplace, business centres in every part of the State.

 

This challenge is not for government alone. We all have a role to play in making sure that this information is shared with women in our families, neighbourhood, communities, offices, places of worship, markets and so on. We must emphasize that the only cure for breast cancer right now is early detection.

 

I pray that God almighty will continue to grant us the will and strength to always do the right thing to be able to stay healthy and enjoy the fruits of our labour.

 

I commend the efforts of the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation as well as all the Executive Secretaries in Badagry division for hosting this event. I also appreciate the efforts of all the NGOs that have been consistent in their support of this exercise. Thank you very much.

 

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it is now my honour and privilege to declare open the Breast Cancer Awareness and Screening Programme in Badagry Division to the glory of God and good health of our people.

 

Remember to “Feel Your Breasts, It Helps”

 

God bless you all.

Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State