Breast Cancer: Akeredolu’s wife canvasses attitudinal change

• As Group Solicits Support To Build Caner Centre

The founder of Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) and wife of Ondo State Governor, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, yesterday, identified the negative attitudes of the people as great obstacle to the fight against cancer in the country.

Anyanwu-Akeredolu stated this during the ‘Jog for Life’ awareness exercise of the just concluded 20th anniversary of BRECAN and 3rd International Breast Cancer Symposium in Akure, where over 3,000 participants and eight international speakers were in attendance.

According to her: “Some of the objectives of the symposium are to provide a platform for international and local breast cancer experts and stakeholders to present and discuss most recent trends, practice, concerns, as well as challenges encountered and solutions in all aspects of breast cancer care.”

The four-day programme reached a climax yesterday morning, as the founder led a crowd in pink colour for the ‘Jog for Life’ awareness exercise that kicked off by 7:00am from NEPA Neighbourhood Market to Arcade Ground, Igbatoro Road Akure.

Similarly, the Ondo State House of Assembly has said it would pass a bill to support the fight against breast cancer in the state.

Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) on the floor of the House of Assembly in Akure, the Deputy Speaker, Iroju Ogundeji, representing the Speaker, Bamidele Oleyelogun, said they would do all within their capacities as legislators to ensure that the battle against breast cancer is won.

While thanking the legislators for their support, the First Lady of Ondo State and founder of BRECAN, Mrs. Betty Ayanwu-Akeredolu, said without collective efforts and collaboration of all arms of government, including members of the society, the fight against breast cancer would continue to be very tough. She therefore urged the Assembly to hasten the passage of the proposed bill.

She said “Cancer treatment is very expensive, which is why we are seeking the support of the Ondo State House of Assembly in combating this scourge.”

Meanwhile, Anambra State Women In USA has called for support in its quest to build a World Class Comprehensive Cancer Treatment Center. President of the association, Dr Anthonia Uche Umeh said the Center, when completed, will create opportunities for health professionals as well as provide a full spectrum of cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, patient follow-up, and palliative care.