Nov 11, 2008 - Breast Cancer And Awareness And Screening Programme At Lagos Island Local Government Area
We are gathered here today to demonstrate our commitment to the fight against breast cancer, one of the major health challenges facing women particularly in less developed countries. As the name implies, this programme was initiated by the State Government, with the objective of raising the awareness level of the people particularly women on breast cancer as well as provide opportunity for people to be screened.
This programme, which has become a regular event in the State is very vital to securing the lives and healthy living of women because adequate knowledge of early detection through Breast Self Examination, Clinical Breast Examination, Mammography and Breast Ultrasound Scan has been identified as very crucial to the successful care and management of breast cancer.
It is therefore absolutely important for all our women to take advantage of this opportunity to be screened, learn about ways and techniques of testing for early signs of breast cancer and where to seek help when in doubt.
I wish to encourage those who may be referred after this screening exercise to please ensure that they report at the appropriate hospital where thy have been referred to as soon as possible. Adequate provision has been made to ensure that you receive prompt attention at the designated hospitals.
This advise has become necessary following the report that 60% of those that were referred in the previous exercises are yet to show up at the designated hospitals. Being referred for further investigation after screening must be seen as a blessing and something to be thankful to God for because it gives very high hope that the situation can be managed very effectively before it becomes too late. I am therefore using this opportunity once again to advise all those who have been previously referred and are yet to report at the appropriate hospitals to please do so immediately for the sake of their health. Financial constraint should not be an excuse as surgical operations are performed free of charge at the designated hospitals.
Let me also enjoin you to cooperate with medical officials by giving correct addresses and other information they may required from you. This information will enable medical officials to reach out to you as at when necessary to ensure that you receive adequate care.
I commend the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and the Ministry of Health in this programme. I also applaud the partnership and commitment of the various non-governmental organisations that have remained steadfast with us in the past years.
On this note, I am pleased to flag off this edition of the Breast Cancer Awareness and screening programme for the healthy living of our people.
As always, remember to Feel Your Breasts because It Helps.
I thank you for your kind attention.
God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
The First Lady of Lagos State