A women-focused non-governmental organisation (NGO), She Safety and Health Initiative, has called for increased awareness to ensure early detection of breast cancer and support for women living with the disease.

The Founder of the health initiative, Abel-Onaiwu, made the call during a breast cancer awareness walk and free screening organised in partnership with Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), on Friday, at Ikeja.

According to the World Health Organisation breast cancer remains the most common cancer globally and the leading cause of cancer deaths among women.

She said the programme, which began on November 3 across various military and police barracks, was designed to sensitise women on breast cancer and the importance of early detection.

She said that officers’ wives received free breast cancer screening, education on self-examination and guidance on early detection.

Mrs Abel-Onaiwu said, “The major aim of this awareness walk is to let women know that breast cancer is not a death sentence. When detected early, it can be treated, and that is why we are here to fight it.”

She added that the outreach to military and police barracks was to ensure that women living in those communities were not isolated.

“These women keep the home front stable when their husbands are away on official duties. This is why we have reached out to provide both emotional and physical support,” she added.

She disclosed that plans were underway to extend the programme to other zones in the country.

Also speaking, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Olohundare Jimoh, who flagged off the walk, commended the organisers for the initiative.

Mr Jimoh said the programme would positively impact members of DEPOWA, praising the association for its unity and community service.

“I am happy that DEPOWA has remained together over the years. They have carried out many projects that benefit their members and even us, their husbands.

“This breast cancer awareness programme is a welcome development, and that is why I consider it important to be here. When our wives are happy, we can carry out our duties better in service to the nation,” he said.

The Coordinator of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), Nabila Mustapha Western Naval Command, Nabila Mustapha, stressed the importance of regular self-examination and screening.

Mrs Mustapha said, “Breast cancer is common among women, but the good news is that it can be treated if detected early. Awareness is a vital tool in fighting the disease.

“I hope every step we take today sends a message of encouragement, compassion and commitment to creating more awareness, especially among women in military and security communities.”

The highlight of the event was a demonstration by Ijeoma Ebuleme of Lakeshore Cancer Centre, who taught participants how to conduct self-breast examinations for early detection of breast cancer.

Participants were also trained on basic first aid, including how to help someone who is fainting or choking.

(NAN)