In an effort to fight cancer, the Ikeja Club recently organised a free health screening for about 200 residents in Lagos State by providing prostate cancer tests for 100 men, breast and cervical cancer screenings for 100 women.

The club’s president, Musediq Adeleke, during the event held at the club’s premises, explained that the initiative was created to support less privileged residents who can’t afford these vital screenings.

While stressing that government can’t handle the burden of fighting cancer alone, he said the club would help any of the residents diagnosed with the disease get the treatment they need.

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Olusegun Ogboye, highlighted the importance of early screening. “The earlier you detect a problem, the easier it is to nip it in the bud,” he said, emphasising that proactive screenings are crucial for better health outcomes and preventing financial hardship for families.

The Ikeja Club’s Vice President, Abayomi Akinomoyinmi, shared a personal reason for the outreach, revealing that he lost both his father and maternal grandfather to prostate cancer. He believes that greater awareness and regular screenings are essential for saving lives and hopes to make the event a regular occurrence.

A 67-year-old beneficiary, Comfort Samuel, commended the club for the initiative, noting that it’s especially helpful for elderly people who struggle with medical costs. The club’s Deputy Coordinator, Elijah Osibajo, also underscored the “health is wealth” message, stating that regular checks could prevent many avoidable deaths.