Medical experts have harped on the need for people to pay close attention to their health and equip themselves with information about their family’s health history.
This advice was given by Dr Oge Ilegbune on the sideline of the Police Women’s Health Programme, organised by In Service Of Humanity (ISOH) Foundation in commemoration of this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness month.
The event, which was held at POWA Multipurpose Hall, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, focused on the women of the Nigerian Police Force, Lagos State Command.
The ISOH Foundation Police Women’s Programme was organized to further raise awareness about breast cancer and to ensure that female police officers, who play a pivotal role in ensuring peace and orderliness in society, remain healthy in the discharge of their duty.
Dr Ilegbune, the Head of Strategy, Development and Outreach, Lakeshore Cancer Centre, in her lecture, stressed that the officers and members of the public should regularly check their bodies for any irregular sign in order to tackle breast cancer at the earliest stage.
At the event, which also featured mental health talks, she also cleared misconceptions that people have about breast cancer. According to her, the types of bra worn by women do not cause the disease but she urged them to use proper ones daily.
Dr Ilegbune, however, noted that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s chances of getting infected.
Similarly, Mrs Mojisola Animashaun, a Radiation Therapist and Executive Director, St. Cyril Cancer Treatment Foundation, reiterated the need for people to put their health first.
Mrs Animashaun, who stated this as she addressed issues surrounding cervical cancer, advised the officers to register with Oncologists and go for regular checkups.
She advised parents to ensure their children get tested for cervical cancer the moment they become sexually active.
Speaking with newsmen at the event, Mrs Nene Bejide, the Director of ISOH Foundation, charged all and sundry to invest in their health to avoid ailments that would threaten their lives and finances.
She stated:
“Let’s invest in our health as much as we invest in buying new clothes, get our hair done or even trying to feed every day.
“We should make it a habit to always be in touch with a doctor instead of self-medication over the counter.
“Endeavour to see the doctor quarterly if you cannot afford monthly; go for a general checkup.”
Meanwhile, courtesy of ISOH Foundation, officers at the event have access to free cancer screening and mental health checks.
