The Founder, Queen Serah Foundation, Queen Ukasoanya Serah Ugochinyere, has called for the implementation of national policies and programmes to raise awareness, reduce exposure to cancer risk factors and also ensure that people are provided with the information and support they need to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Speaking at an event to mark the year 2020 World Cancer Day in Imo state, recently, she revealed that about 30-50% of cancer cases are preventable.
She, however, reiterated that prevention offers the most cost-effective long-term strategy for the control of cancer.
According to her: “The World Health Organisation (WHO) has outlined steps to save 7 million lives from cancer. They spelled out need to set up Cancer services in low and middle income countries.
“More than 90% of high-income countries reported that comprehensive treatment services for cancer were available in the public health system compared to less than 15% of low-income countries.
“High income countries have adopted prevention, early diagnosis and screening programs, which together with better treatment have contributed to an estimated 20% reduction in the probability of premature mortality, but low-income countries only saw a reduction of 5%.”
She noted that cancer can be detected early, treated effectively and cured if Nigerians can have access to primary care and referral systems.
She, therefore, called on the governments at all levels, Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and well –meaning individuals, to join the fight against cancer so as to have a cancer-free Nigeria.
The event was aimed at raising awareness on cancer and also provide free screening including breast scan/examination, prostate screening, mammogram and colorectal cancer screening.
