World Cancer Day: NAOWA Commends Progress, Advocates for Quality Healthcare Access (Photos)
World Cancer Day: NAOWA Commends Progress, Advocates for Quality Healthcare Access (Photos)
World Cancer Day: NAOWA Commends Progress, Advocates for Quality Healthcare Access (Photos)
In a dedicated effort to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment, the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) has praised the strides made in combating cancer in Nigeria.
The association also advocates for enhanced access to quality healthcare services to address the prevalent health challenges.
Acknowledging the global initiative to spotlight cancer prevention and treatment, NAOWA underscores the urgency of tackling the burden of cancer within the barracks community and Nigeria at large.
During a one-day summit themed “Closing the Care Gap” held at the Command Officers Mess 1 in Asokoro, Abuja, on Monday, February 5, 2024, NAOWA President Mrs. Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja highlighted the significance of World Cancer Day.
She emphasised the need to unite in the fight against cancer and bridge the existing gaps in cancer management to prevent further deaths and disabilities.
Mrs. Lagbaja emphasised the theme’s relevance, pointing out major gaps in the care of cancer patients globally and the limited awareness surrounding the disease.
She stressed that a lack of awareness often hinders early diagnosis and prompt treatment, making the summit an integral part of NAOWA’s corporate social responsibility to raise awareness and contribute to global and local efforts.
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The president outlined the summit’s purpose: creating a platform for open dialogue, sharing experiences, learning from experts, and ensuring that those on treatment receive adequate support to combat the disease.
Calling for collective action, Lagbaja urged regular screening and support for those affected by cancer, underscoring NAOWA’s commitment to alleviating the disease’s burden and fostering a healthier society.
In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Ohwonigho Akpor, stressed the importance of early detection and preventive care in the battle against cancer. He called for increased investment in awareness campaigns and screening programmes.
General Akpor noted that the summit, observed annually on February 4, raises awareness about cancer’s impact globally and offers an opportunity to reflect on efforts made and commit to ongoing progress.
He emphasised that the gathering has created awareness and ignited hope for a cancer-free future.
Highlighting the substantial burden of cancer in Nigeria, especially among army personnel, General Akpor called for collective action through screening and vaccination.
He expressed confidence that the summit’s lectures would contribute to achieving the objectives of identifying and addressing barriers to accessing care.
The Chief of Administration urged the barracks community to engage in regular screening for early detection through NA healthcare facilities nationwide.
The summit featured lectures from knowledgeable resource persons on cancer prevention, management, and treatment, followed by a question-and-answer session, including testimonies from cancer survivors.
World Cancer Day: NAOWA Commends Progress, Advocates for Quality Healthcare Access (Photos)
