As the globe marks World Cancer Day today, the First Lady of Abia State, Dr. Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu has called for concerted efforts to end the prevalence of cancer.
In a statement from her office signed by the Chief Press Secretary, Chika Ojiegbe, the First lady called for collaboration amongst governments, NGOs, stakeholders in the health sector, corporate bodies, medical research institutions, and philanthropic organization to reduce cancer related mortalities.
Mrs. Ikpeazu said the theme of this year’s event which is Close The Care Gap is a wakeup call for all players to synergize to close the gap in the availability and affordability of cancer treatment for patients.
The release described cancer as a genetic disease that is caused by changes to genes that control the way our cells function, especially how they grow and divide. It said genetic changes that cause cancer can happen because of several factors including errors that occur as cells divide, damage to DNA caused by intake of harmful substances in the environment such as tobacco smoke, radiation, air pollution, and ultraviolet rays from the sun. Alcohol use, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise are also risk factors to cancer.
Cancer can also be inherited from parents.
Mrs. Nkechi Ikpeazu called on Nigerians to embrace lifestyle changes and avoid sedentary way of life.
The First Lady revealed that to mark the World cancer Day, her Foundation, Vicar Hope Foundation is offering free clinical examination for Breast cancer which is the most predominant cancer and major cause of death.
Abians are advised to walk into the Vicar Hope Foundation centres at 75 Cameroon Road Aba and 183 Ndume Otuka Bypass Umuahia for free Clinical Breast Exams.
