Health
The Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Edo chapter, has organised free mammography screening and Pap smear test for women across the state from Oct. 29 to Nov. 5.
Dr Adesuwa Edigin, the state Chairperson of the association, disclosed this in a statement issued in Benin on Wednesday.
“The free mammography screening will take place at the Edo Specialist Hospital (ESH) in Benin, while the Pap smear test will hold at the Irrua Teaching Hospital.
“MWAN cares for women in the state, hence we are taking out time to organise this test and commence treatment on those with symptoms of breast cancer or cervical cancer.
“We have been doing all we can in raising awareness on cervical and breast cancer before the Covid-19 pandemic halted our cancer screening programmes across the Local government Areas but it will commence in January 2021.’’
Edigin said in commemorating with Pink October set aside in countries across the world as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the group is partnering with several hospitals to give free and discounted mammography to women.
“We have partnered with ESH to give free Mammography to 100 women; also with the Benin Medical Centre for 50 women and other hospitals, to give free mammography and pap smear to 50 women each.
“I believe that by 2050, breast cancer would be eradicated or everyone living with the cancer would survive if we act now by going through screening.’’
According to her, research has shown that there is 25 per cent reduction in deaths from breast cancer among women who regularly go for screening.
Edigin listed the symptoms of breast cancer to include Orange peel look, a lump, a bloody discharge and pains.
She said breast cancer can be prevented by checking your breast once a month and by doing self-examination.
The MWAN chairperson said the main purpose of a Pap smear test is to identify cellular changes in the cervix, which could be caused by the Human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is a viral infection that is passed between people through skin-to-skin contact.
“By detecting cervical cancer cells early with a Pap smear, treatment can start before it spreads and becomes a bigger concern.
“It is also possible to test for HPV from the Pap smear specimen, too,’’ she added. (NAN)
– Oct. 28, 2020 @ 13:39 GMT |
Tags: MWAN organises free mammogramme screening for Edo women
