BY EVEREST EZIHE
The founder of a Non Governmental Organization, Queen Sarah Foundation, HRM Queen Serah Ukasoanya has expressed worry over the increasing rate of cancer patients which makes it imperative for concerted steps be taken to ensure early detection and treatment.
Ukasoanya disclosed this in Owerri at the weekend when her NGO marked the 2021 World Cancer Day awareness with the theme – I am And I Will” with a roadshow.
The road show was part of activities lined up by the NGO as part of measures of creating awareness on cancer.
The road show which was led by Queen Serah Ukasoanya started at Government House Okigwe Road Roundabout, Owerri and terminated at the State Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Orlu Road, Owerri.
Top dignitaries such as Hon. Mrs Joseph Nneoham, Special Adviser to Imo State Government on Women Mobilisation and the State Woman Leader of APC, took part in the roadshow.
Others who also participated in the road show include students of Girl’s Secondary School,Akwakuma, some rural women from the 27 council areas of the state, members and staff of the NGO, among others .
“I am and I Will Campaign, show us that our action has an impact on every one around us . When we choose to come together, we can achieve what we all wish for, an idea of brighter world without cancer. Our actions matters, so lets join hands together and speak out and stand out for a Cancer free world. Our time to act is now, no matter who you’re, we all have a positive and important role to play to reduce the impact of cancer. Therefore, lets get involved any way we can, cause together we can get change ” he assured.
Speaking earlier, Mrs. Josephine Nneoham applauded the founder of Queen Serah Foundation for her love in humanitarian services, notin that cancer kills and that the only remedy is early detection and adequate medical attention.
Nneoham assured to mobilize her team comprising mainly women to carry the message to all the nooks and crannies of the state.
She commended Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo state for demonstrating passion about the health and welfare of the populace.
Chief Tony Akunaeme, the Senior Special Adviser to Imo State Government on Information, Communication and Technology, ICT commended Queen Serah Ukasoanya for her humanitarian services, reiterating the commitment of his office to continued partnership with the NGO.
Earlier, Mrs. Maureen Iwuchukwu of Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria, BRECAN who was one of the resource persons described cancer as uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells in the body.
Iwuchukwu named principally three types of cancer to include prostrate, breast and cervical cancers attributing the causes to obesity, hereditary, excess consumption of alcohol, smoking and lack of breast feeding, among others.
To prevent Cancer, she canvassed the need for regular exercise, drinking water, minimization of constant exposure to X- Ray, eating more of vegetables and fruits and cautioned against regular eating of junk foods.
The signs of Cancer, the expert said include decolouration of breast fluid, lump(s) identification in the breast, changes in the nipples and discharges from the nipples, among others. She reiterated the need for regular medical checkup.