The Pink Africa Foundation, in partnership with Global Organisations, has intensified efforts to combat breast cancer through public awareness, free medical screenings and advocacy for improved access to cancer treatment in Cross River State.
The initiative was part of the 2026 Go Pink Day programme, organised in October to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month under the theme, “Turn Up the Fight in Breast Cancer Care.”
The programme featured free breast cancer screening, cervical cancer screening for women, prostate cancer screening for men, eye checks and a blood donation drive, alongside educational sessions on cancer prevention, early detection and treatment.
Speaking at the event, President of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, Dr Funke Ebughe, said sustained awareness was essential to reducing the burden of breast cancer, particularly because many patients present at healthcare facilities when the disease has reached an advanced stage.
Ebughe explained that breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast develop abnormal changes and multiply uncontrollably, stressing that although women account for the overwhelming majority of cases, men are also susceptible to the disease.
She identified age, biological sex, family history and genetic factors, including BRCA gene mutations, as some of the non-modifiable risk factors, while lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, tobacco use and alcohol consumption could also contribute to cancer risk.
According to her, people should become familiar with the normal appearance of their breasts and seek medical attention whenever they notice unusual changes, including lumps, skin dimpling, changes in nipple appearance or abnormal nipple discharge.
She, however, clarified that not every breast lump is cancerous, noting that proper medical evaluation is necessary to determine the cause of any abnormality.
The medical practitioner urged residents to share accurate information about breast cancer within their communities, workplaces, schools and religious organisations, describing public participation as critical to improving early detection and saving lives.
She emphasised that cancer awareness should not be restricted to women, as men can also develop breast cancer and should equally pay attention to unusual changes in their breasts.
Also speaking, Executive Director of Pink Africa Foundation, Glory Enoe Green, said the organisation was combining awareness campaigns with practical interventions to address the challenges facing cancer patients, particularly those in underserved communities.
Green explained that the foundation's approach was designed to close gaps in cancer care by providing screening opportunities and educating participants on how to identify possible warning signs.
She expressed concern over the difficulties many patients encounter in accessing diagnosis and treatment, particularly those living in rural communities and areas far from specialised health facilities.
According to her, some patients are unable to proceed with treatment because they cannot afford transportation, medical investigations, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Green disclosed that the foundation had recorded more than 50 cancer cases at its centre within the period under review, adding that the actual number could be higher because some patients lacked the financial resources to access further medical care.
She appealed to the Cross River State Government, individuals and corporate organisations to support cancer care initiatives, improve access to specialised treatment facilities and subsidise the cost of treatment.
The foundation's executive director also called for increased investment in cancer treatment infrastructure, including radiotherapy machines and the availability of more oncology specialists, to improve the survival chances of patients.
In her contribution, Executive Director of Asi Ukpo Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Calabar, Yegwa Ukpo, described the cancer burden in Nigeria as a serious public health concern, noting that breast cancer remains a major contributor to cancer cases among women.
Ukpo said the high cost of treatment and limited access to diagnostic services continued to prevent many patients in Cross River State from receiving timely care.
She disclosed that the centre had attended to hundreds of patients since its establishment, although the number of residents who required treatment was believed to be higher because many could not afford the cost of care.
She explained that the centre was discussing arrangements with the National Health Insurance Authority to improve access to cancer treatment through health insurance, adding that the process was still ongoing.
Ukpo urged residents to undergo regular medical check-ups rather than waiting for symptoms to become severe, noting that some cancers may develop without obvious warning signs during their early stages.
She also encouraged people to adopt healthier lifestyles, limit exposure to recognised cancer risk factors and seek professional medical advice when necessary.
According to her, community outreaches organised by healthcare providers and other organisations offer opportunities for people to access screening services, including breast examinations and prostate screening, without necessarily bearing the full cost of such services.
She further called on families, religious institutions and community leaders to encourage their members to participate in cancer screening programmes and support individuals undergoing treatment.
One of the participants, Dr Constance Dien, who benefited from the breast and cervical cancer screening exercise, said the programme provided an opportunity for women to learn more about their health and seek professional assessment.
Dien urged women not to interpret unusual bodily changes as a death sentence or allow fear and ignorance to prevent them from seeking medical attention.
She advised residents to report unusual symptoms to qualified healthcare professionals, stressing that faith and prayer should be accompanied by appropriate medical evaluation and treatment.
She also encouraged people not to allow fear of medical expenses to discourage them from seeking help, noting that early consultation could provide clarity and help patients determine the appropriate next steps.
The organisers expressed hope that sustained public awareness, accessible screening services, stronger government support and increased investment in cancer care would help reduce late diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes across Cross River State.
They called on residents to take responsibility for their health, share reliable cancer information and support efforts aimed at making early detection and treatment more accessible to all.
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