Cancer Awareness: Experts Urge Women to Prioritize Early Detection

By Khalid Idris Doya

Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria

October 30, 2025

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) and the Medical Women's Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Bauchi State Chapter, have organized a cancer awareness campaign to raise awareness about breast and cervical cancers, the most prevalent health challenges affecting women in society. The campaign, held in Dungal community of Bauchi, had the theme "Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters."

Dr. Ummahani Jafaru, President of MWAN Bauchi and a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, noted that October is globally recognized as Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. "Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, while cervical cancer is the second most common. Sadly, timely treatment and access to care still remain major challenges for many women," she said.

Dr. Ummahani emphasized that early detection significantly increases survival chances, citing alarming statistics that Nigeria detects about 28,000 new breast cancer cases and 12,000 cervical cancer cases annually, with roughly 8,000 deaths linked to cervical cancer. "These figures remind us of the urgent need for awareness, vaccination, early detection, and accessible treatment for all women," she said.

Dr. Habiba Isma'il of the ATBU Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, expressed concern that many women present late to hospitals often when their cancer has reached advanced stages. "At that point, little can be done in terms of cure. We can only offer palliative care to relieve pain and improve quality of life," she said, emphasizing the importance of recognizing early warning signs of breast and cervical cancers.

The stakeholders urged women to prioritize their health, seek medical attention if they notice any symptoms, and undergo regular screenings. Sulaiman Ibrahim, representing the NEDC Coordinator in Bauchi, reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to improving healthcare and women's well-being across the North-East region.

The village head of Dungal, Alhaji Adamu Abdullahi, thanked MWAN and NEDC for choosing his community to host the campaign, describing it as a life-changing outreach that would empower women with vital health knowledge.