Kwara Govt flag off free cancer screening

Kwara State Government on Wednesday, 5th February kicked off free screening for cervical and breast cancer commemoration of World Cancer Day and to further educate the public on the killer disease.

Commissioner for Health, Dr Raji Razaq noted that the ministry has recruited health professionals to screen about 3000 Kwara residents for breast and cervical cancer.

Dr. Raji revealed that experts have been sent to various centres in the local governments to carry out the screening as well as orientate the public on the major causes of cancer.

The commissioner added that the government’s actions, which indicates its care for people’s health, were partly informed by appeal by the Federal Ministry of Health to all state governments to mobilise resources against cancer, including upping public enlightenment.

He confirmed that at least 24million people suffer from the deadly disease world over, as 12.5percent of deaths was linked to the disease.

Dr Razaq said the ministry held a mini rally on Tuesday in the state capital Ilorin to create awareness on the disease and to mobilise citizens for screening at Maraba motor park.

He said the ministry will soon begin radio programmes to enlighten the public on the causes of cancer and various prevention mechanisms.

“Thanks to the Governor’s approval, we are using the latest technology in the state for screening for breast and cervical cancer. Provisions have also been made to purchase latest equipment,” he said.

Dr Stephen Arigidi, Deputy Director of Medical Science and Training in the ministry, said ignorance of the disease accounts for 72000 deaths in Nigeria every year.

Arigidi said women of productive age are most prone to cervical and breast cancer, noting that it is important for them to avail themselves for early screening and treatment in the case of early detection.

He further praised the government for conducting free screening and early treatment of cancer in the state.