MWAN, NEDC Launch Cancer Awareness Campaign in Taraba
The Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Taraba State Chapter, in collaboration with the North East Development Commission (NEDC), has urged Nigerian women to embrace regular breast and cervical cancer screening as a vital step toward early detection, treatment, and prevention of these deadly diseases. The call was made on Friday in Jalingo by the President of MWAN, Dr. Echuseh Audu, during the flag-off of the Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness Campaign themed “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters.”
Dr. Audu said the campaign was part of the association’s ongoing commitment to improving women’s health through awareness and education. She noted that the initiative would be extended across communities in Taraba State to ensure that women at all levels have access to vital information and free screening opportunities. The campaign, she said, highlights the importance of early cancer detection and the role of preventive healthcare in reducing mortality rates.
Emphasising the strength of partnerships, Dr. Audu explained that collaboration between MWAN and NEDC is central to promoting access to care and raising awareness. “This programme demonstrates the strength of partnership and our shared mission to provide compassionate care and support for women. We aim to engage top health professionals to educate women on the importance of screening, early diagnosis, and preventive measures,” she stated, urging women, particularly those aged 50 and above, to make screening a regular health routine.
Amahdy Gagwi Tarfa, representing the North East Development Commission, commended MWAN for its dedication to women’s health and pledged the Commission’s continued support for initiatives that impact the wellbeing of people across the North East. Similarly, the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, Dr. Aisha Adamu, described the campaign as a landmark effort in the state’s health sector, stressing the importance of community awareness and collective action in reducing the burden of cancer.
During the event, participants received expert education on cancer care. Dr. Maryam Musa Haruna delivered a talk on “Understanding Breast Cancer: Signs, Prevention, and Early Detection,” while Dr. Rakiya Jibril spoke on “Cervical Cancer Awareness: The Role of Vaccination and Screening.” The organisers said the campaign is designed to empower women with knowledge and encourage proactive healthcare practices that can save lives.