The Breast Cancer Organisation of Nigeria (BRECAN), Bayelsa State chapter, has urged for increased awareness on breast cancer prevention.
As a leading non-governmental organization focused on breast cancer advocacy and awareness, the group made this appeal during its annual "Jog for Life" programme, held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, in Yenagoa, the state capital.
The event, which commemorates Breast Cancer Awareness Month, began with a sensitization road walk to educate the public about breast self-examination, early detection, and prevention.
Participants carried placards bearing inspirational messages, such as "Cancer is tough, but you are tougher," "Breast Cancer is not a death sentence," and "Feel for lumps, save your boobs."
Dr. Abisoye Oyeyemi, Secretary of BRECAN's Bayelsa State Chapter, emphasized that breast cancer screening can be conducted through various methods, including: Breast self-examination for individuals 16 years and above Clinical breast examination with a healthcare professional, Mammograms for women 40 years and above.
He said "Jog for life is a flagship programme or event of Breast Cancer association of Nigeria.
" it's our own way of observing pink october which you know is breast cancer awareness month and in all the state where Brecan operates during the month of october every chapter is expected to stage jog for life.
"It's our own way of using physical exercise which is one of the major skills used to fight non communicable disease of which cancer is part. so we use the jog for life to show people that you need to be physically active and as we are doing that we are promoting and raising awareness of breast cancer."
Oyeyemi also stressed that breast cancer risk can be reduced through breastfeeding, abstaining from alcohol, and quitting smoking.
According to Oyeyemi, the "Jog for Life" event serves as a platform for fundraising and patient support. "Jog for Life is BRECAN's flagship program, observing Pink October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We use physical exercise, a key tool in fighting non-communicable diseases like cancer, to promote awareness.
State Coordinator, World Health Organisation, Nigeria Bayelsa Field Office, Dr Marcus O
represented at the event congratulated BRECAN and commended the group for the initiative.
The event was attended by other humanitarian and health organizations advocating against breast, prostate, and cervical cancers, including: Muslim Women Association, Goldcoast Developmental Foundation, Do Foundation, World Health Organization representatives, Coalition of Alliance (CACIBS)
Founded in 1997 by breast cancer survivor and former Ondo State First Lady, Chief Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, BRECAN aims to significantly reduce the burden of breast, cervical, and prostate cancers through public education, patient support, advocacy, and research. The Bayelsa State chapter was inaugurated on October 23, 2021.
