Kwara cancer screening begins free breast, prostate and liver tests to promote early detection and save lives across the state

Kwara cancer screening has commenced across the state as the government launches a free medical programme targeting breast, prostate and liver cancers to promote early detection and save lives.

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The initiative, which forms part of activities marking the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is being carried out at key health facilities including Kwara University Teaching Hospital, General Hospital Offa, and Primary Health Centre, Bode Saadu.

At the flag-off event in Ilorin, Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, wife of the state governor, expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in cancer cases nationwide.

Citing data from the National Cancer Institute, she noted that nearly 20 million new cancer cases were recorded globally in 2022, with about 9.7 million deaths, describing the figures as a wake-up call for urgent intervention.

“These statistics call for decisive action to reduce mortality from these preventable diseases,” AbdulRazaq said.

She reaffirmed the state’s commitment to public health through sensitisation, early detection and timely intervention, stressing that the Kwara Cancer Screening programme was designed to reach every community and reduce the burden of the disease.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El-Imam, said cancer remains a global threat affecting all demographics, adding that early diagnosis remains the strongest weapon against the disease.

She explained that while breast cancer continues to top mortality rates among women, prostate and liver cancers are fast-rising among men.

Most cases, she said, are preventable and treatable if discovered early.

Dr El-Imam praised the state government’s support and commended the approval for the Abdul Samad Rabiu Cancer Treatment Centre, describing it as a “game-changing facility” that will enhance cancer care and management in Kwara.

She urged residents to seize the opportunity to get screened and encourage family members to do the same.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Kwara State House of Assembly Committee on Health and Nutrition, Mr Seun Ogunniyi, applauded the initiative, urging citizens to make health checks a priority.

“Twenty to thirty per cent of cancer cases are preventable. I advise our people to seek help in the designated health facilities,” he stated.

The Kwara Cancer Screening initiative reinforces the government’s ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access and reducing cancer-related deaths.