In a powerful call to action, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, urged Nigerians to dismantle the pervasive culture of silence and stigma surrounding breast cancer. Speaking at the launch of the Mariam-Atswandeh Cancer Support Foundation (MACSF) and a Breast Cancer Awareness Symposium in Abuja on Saturday, Akume emphasized the transformative potential of awareness, education, and community engagement in combating the disease. The event, themed "From Awareness to Action: Building Resilient Communities Against Cancer," underscored the critical importance of early detection and holistic support for those affected by breast cancer.
Represented by Mr. Francis Ikyenge, a Director in the SGF’s office, Akume highlighted the urgent need to foster open conversations about breast cancer to reduce its devastating impact. “We must break the culture of silence and stigma. Regular self-examinations, screenings, and open conversations can save lives,” he declared. He stressed that early detection through routine screenings and self-examinations is a cornerstone of reducing breast cancer cases and fatalities. Beyond medical interventions, Akume emphasized that survivors and patients require comprehensive support, including emotional, financial, and social care, to navigate the challenges of the disease.
Akume outlined the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing breast cancer through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. He noted that the government is prioritizing cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment by expanding screening programs, improving access to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and collaborating with partners to alleviate the financial burdens faced by patients. These efforts, he said, are part of a broader strategy to ensure that Nigerians have access to quality healthcare and support systems. He also highlighted the importance of partnerships with organizations like MACSF, civil society, faith-based groups, and the private sector, describing them as essential to achieving meaningful progress in the fight against breast cancer.
The SGF commended the Mariam-Atswandeh Cancer Support Foundation for its multifaceted approach, which integrates awareness, advocacy, and direct support for patients. He noted that the foundation’s work aligns seamlessly with the government’s vision of fostering a healthier population. By addressing both the medical and social dimensions of breast cancer, MACSF is contributing to a more resilient and informed society, Akume said.
The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, represented by Dr. Uche Nwokwu, echoed Akume’s sentiments and called on screening organizations to ensure robust follow-up care for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. He warned that the psychological trauma following a diagnosis can be as deadly as the disease itself, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care that addresses both physical and mental health. Salako’s remarks underscored the importance of a holistic approach to cancer care, one that supports patients through every stage of their journey, from diagnosis to recovery.
Dr. Mya Ngon, the World Health Organization’s Team Lead for Disease Prevention and Control, praised the establishment of the MACSF as a testament to growing community resolve to tackle breast cancer. She emphasized that public awareness and early detection are critical to ensuring that no woman is left behind due to lack of access to information or healthcare services. Dr. Ngon highlighted the foundation’s role in mobilizing communities and fostering a collective commitment to reducing the burden of breast cancer in Nigeria.
The event also featured remarks from Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, the wife of the Imo State Governor, who was represented by Mrs. Adaora Iwuanyanwu, the wife of the deputy speaker of the Imo House of Assembly. Uzodimma described the launch of the foundation as both timely and impactful, stressing that awareness alone is insufficient without actionable steps. “Awareness alone is not enough; we must act with urgency, compassion, and collaboration,” she said. As the chair of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), Uzodimma pledged to collaborate with MACSF to expand screening initiatives and reduce the stigma associated with breast cancer. Her commitment reflects the growing role of influential figures in advocating for health equity and community-driven solutions.
The convener of the Mariam-Atswandeh Cancer Support Foundation, Mrs. Mariam Salami, a breast cancer survivor herself, delivered an inspiring message to patients and survivors. She urged those affected by the disease to seek help and resist the temptation to isolate themselves. “Cancer does not have the final word. Early detection saves lives, and no one should face cancer alone,” Salami said. She shared that the foundation is actively engaged in outreach programs across hospitals, schools, and markets to promote early detection and dismantle cultural barriers that prevent open discussions about breast cancer. Salami’s personal journey as a survivor adds a powerful dimension to the foundation’s mission, making it a beacon of hope for many.
The urgency of the foundation’s work is underscored by sobering statistics from GLOBOCAN 2022, which reported 32,278 new breast cancer cases and 16,332 deaths in Nigeria alone. Across Africa, the figures are even more alarming, with over 198,000 new cases and 91,000 deaths recorded. Globally, breast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, accounting for approximately 2.3 million new cases and 666,000 deaths, representing nearly 24 percent of all female cancers. These numbers highlight the critical need for sustained efforts to raise awareness, improve access to screening and treatment, and provide support to those affected.
October, recognized globally as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against this disease. Events like the MACSF launch and symposium in Abuja are pivotal in galvanizing communities, policymakers, and healthcare providers to take decisive action. The foundation’s work, coupled with government initiatives and partnerships, represents a promising step toward reducing the burden of breast cancer in Nigeria and beyond.
The launch of the Mariam-Atswandeh Cancer Support Foundation marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to combat breast cancer. By fostering awareness, advocating for early detection, and providing direct support to patients, the foundation is helping to build resilient communities capable of confronting this public health challenge. The collective resolve displayed by government officials, health experts, and community leaders at the symposium signals a growing momentum in the fight against breast cancer. However, as the speakers emphasized, this fight requires sustained action, collaboration, and a commitment to breaking down barriers of stigma and silence.
As Nigeria grapples with the rising incidence of breast cancer, initiatives like MACSF are critical to saving lives and improving outcomes. The foundation’s outreach efforts, combined with government-led programs and partnerships, have the potential to transform the landscape of cancer care in the country. By prioritizing early detection, expanding access to treatment, and addressing the emotional and social needs of patients, Nigeria can move closer to a future where breast cancer is no longer a death sentence but a manageable condition. The message from the symposium is clear: awareness must translate into action, and no one should face breast cancer alone.
