By Lizzy Carr
A consortium of Civil Society Organisations working on cancer awareness on Saturday held a 5km walk to create awareness of Breast cancer as well as offered free screening for over 300 women.
Alheri YS and ALFO Foundations with support from BIK Foundation have organized the five-kilometer walk in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month which is observed every October.
The grand walk took place amidst fanfare, pageantry, and lots of side attractions with hundreds of Volunteers commencing the walk from Dogon Yaro roundabout, through Ahmadu Bello Way, Wunti Market, Kobi and Nassarawa Streets, Yakubun Bauchi Road and eventually terminated at the Government House.
Giving a health talk before the walk a Consultant Surgeon with the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital Bauchi (ATBUTH) Dr. Adamu Ningi said that breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women.
“Early detection remains one of the most effective ways of mitigating the scourge in the community.”
Ningi urged women of reproductive age to imbibe the habit of visiting the hospital for screening at least once in two years.
“Women need to do breast self-examination after their monthly menstruation for any signs of a lump in their breast.”
The Consultant added that with advancements in technology and early detection, breast cancer can be cured and patients can live and achieve their full potential in life.
Chief Executive Officer of Aisha Adam Bappa Life Foundation (ALFO), Aisha Bappa, and that of Alheri YS Foundation, Alheri Sarauta said that the walk which is an annual event is aimed at raising awareness of breast cancer and promoting early detection, especially amongst women of reproductive age.
In a goodwill message, secretary to Bauchi state government Barr. Ibrahim Kashim Commended the CSOs and volunteers for the impressive awareness campaign.
The SSG said that the government has a strong commitment to partner with groups and non-governmental organizations to create awareness of the dangers associated with the disease.
