In Ebonyi State, the First Lady, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, has taken a proactive approach to combat cervical cancer by organizing a free screening initiative for 1000 women. This event, held at Elinwovu General Hospital in Abakaliki, aims to raise awareness and curb the spread of cancer-related ailments among women. Chief Mrs. Nwifuru emphasized that the outreach, themed "Ending Cervical Cancer Within a Few Generations," is a collaborative effort involving her office, Better Health for Rural Women, Children, and Internally Displaced Foundation (BERWO), the Medical Women Association, and Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

The Governor's wife stressed the importance of timely screening to detect early stages of cervical cancer, providing an opportunity for women to receive care that reduces morbidity and mortality. She urged medical practitioners, stakeholders, and traditional rulers to commit to educating, advocating, and supporting women's health.

In another effort to mark Cervical Cancer Month in Ebonyi State, Her Excellency's BERWO foundation, in collaboration with the Medical Women's Association and Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, launched free cervical cancer screenings, blood pressure measurements, and blood glucose tests. The theme, "Ending Cervical Cancer Within a Few Generations," underscores the global impact of cervical cancer on women. Chief Mary-Maudline Nwifuru highlighted the need for education, early detection, and proactive health measures.

Encouraging women in Ebonyi State to prioritize their health, Chief Mrs. Nwifuru advocated for regular cervical cancer screenings and HPV vaccinations, emphasizing that "these measures are crucial for prevention. The collaborative efforts of medical practitioners, stakeholders, and traditional rulers would help to create a world where cervical cancer is not only treatable but preventable."

Dr. Nwobasi Lillian, the President of the Medical Women's Association in Ebonyi State, emphasized the importance of undergoing cervical cancer screening tests and getting vaccinated "We are starting with the first 200 to 300 women. We want to catch them early, teach women when to go to hospital and signs of the illments

Dr. Nkechi Emma-Echiegu, the Team Lead of BERWO, revealed that "the collaborative outreach has covered three local governments in Ebonyi State and all 13 LGAs would be included."

Chief Executive and Hospital Administrator, State Hospital Management Board Ebonyi State, Dr. Nwali James, stressed the significance of the screening exercise in preventing and capturing early cases of cervical cancer, ultimately preserving the dignity of women in Ebonyi State.

(c)2024 Corporate Communications / Kelvinerice Udeze
First Published by Aefutha.gov.ng
Reported by Uche Duru