The Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Bauchi State Chapter, on Thursday conducted free breast cancer screening for over 100 women and adolescent girls in Dungal community, Bauchi State.
Dr. Umma-Hanni Ja’afar, President of MWAN in Bauchi, said the outreach aimed to raise awareness about breast and cervical cancers—two major public health concerns among women in Nigeria.
“We are in Dungal to sensitize both men and women about the rising cases of cancer among women and to promote early detection,” she said. “I urge you to share this knowledge with your daughters and younger girls so they can recognize the signs and symptoms early.”
Ja’afar emphasized that MWAN would continue to reach rural and underserved communities to encourage early diagnosis and prevention of cancer.
Speaking at the event, the National President of MWAN, Dr. Zainab Kwaru—represented by the Chairperson of the Nigeria Cancer Society, Bauchi Chapter, Dr. Habiba Ismail—reaffirmed the association’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of women and adolescent girls across the country.
She stressed the importance of early presentation at health facilities, urging women to conduct regular breast self-examinations after their monthly menstruation.
“If you notice any abnormality in your breast, such as a lump or nipple discharge, please visit a health facility immediately for proper medical attention,” she advised, cautioning against self-medication or reliance on herbal treatments for cancer.
Also speaking, Sulaiman Ibrahim, an official of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), said the commission would continue to support health interventions across the sub-region. He highlighted ongoing projects including the construction of health facilities and provision of medical equipment for vulnerable groups.
In his goodwill message, Bauchi State Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Mohammed Sani Dambam, commended MWAN for its foresight and dedication to women’s health.
Declaring the screening exercise open, the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Malaria (BACATMA), Dr. Adamu, lauded MWAN’s community-based initiatives aimed at addressing critical health issues affecting women.
He also urged parents to vaccinate their girls aged 9–14 years with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent cervical cancer.
