Writing By Abdullahi Jalaludeen; Editing By Godwin Duru
Health experts have emphasized the importance of early detection and preventive care in the fight against cancer, describing the disease as curable if diagnosed and treated promptly.
The message was delivered during a cancer awareness campaign organized by the Rotary Club of Kano Dala Sunrise, held at the Giginyu Primary Health Care Centre.
The campaign, tagged “Cancer: A Curable Disease,” focused on women, particularly expectant mothers.
Speaking at the event, Nurse Maryam Abdullahi Muhammad, a cancer survivor and advocate, said many lives could be saved if women seek timely screening and treatment.
“Cancer is not a death sentence. With proper care and medication, patients can live normal and healthy lives. Early detection is the key to survival,” she stressed.
Also addressing participants, Dr. Fatima Usman of the Kano State Primary Health Care Development Board and focal person for maternal and newborn child health, highlighted the low level of awareness among women in Kano as a major challenge.
“This campaign is coming at the right time, especially in Dala, where the number of women is high. Many women still do not understand the importance of screening and early diagnosis,”
The President of the Rotary Club of Kano Dala Sunrise, Maye Taye Hassan, explained that the program aligns with the club’s focus on maternal and child health, with a special emphasis on cancer prevention.
“Our aim is to support women by raising awareness and providing tools that can help them stay healthy,”.
Former pPresident of the club, Rotarian Olalekan Ahmad Kasali, said that the long-term goal was to eradicate cancer among expectant mothers and reduce the financial burden of treatment.
“Preventing cancer is cheaper and safer than managing it at the late stages. That is why awareness is critical”.
As part of the event, the Rotary Club distributed essential items to pregnant women attending antenatal sessions at the health facility.
The donations included delivery kits, new mothers’ pads, and mosquito nets.
The campaign drew commendations from participants, who described it as a life-saving initiative and called for more sustained efforts in cancer prevention and maternal health awareness across the state.
ABDULLAHI JALALUDDEEN
