Breast Cancer Awareness Month: COWA PTML flags off free screening initiative

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), PTML Chapter, has taken a significant step in the fight against breast cancer, launching a free screening initiative and awareness campaign to educate women on the importance of early detection and regular health checks.

Speaking today Wednesday at the flag off ceremony of the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Chairperson of the Chapter, Mrs. Caroline Ifeoluwa Anani, reaffirmed COWA’s commitment to promoting women’s health and creating awareness on the dangers of late detection.

Anani commended the National President of COWA, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, for her guidance and leadership, which she described as a continuous source of motivation and direction for all chapters.

She highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding breast cancer in Nigeria, noting that up to 80 percent of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to high mortality rates due to poor awareness and late diagnosis.

The Chairperson revealed that cancer killed nearly 10 million lives globally in 2020, but over one-third of cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes and timely screenings. She also announced that free breast cancer screening would continue throughout the month for women in PTML.

The Command Area Controller, Comptroller Joe Anani, in his remarks commended the association , for organising a breast cancer awareness program focused on prevention and early detection. He described the initiative as essential and productive, noting that it addresses a health challenge that has claimed many lives and reflects the association’s commitment to the welfare of Customs families.

Anani said the program will help to bridge the awareness and testing gap in breast cancer prevention because breast cancer is a serious issue that requires continuous education and vigilance.

The CAC urged women, especially within the Customs community, to prioritise regular health checks and support awareness campaigns, assuring that the Command would continue to back initiatives promoting family and community health.

The Zonal Nursing Officer, Zone A, Comptroller Victoria Bishen, in her presentation called on women in the chapter to support one another in the fight against breast cancer, emphasising that the disease is not contagious and should not be a source of fear or stigma. she urged women to share information, encourage regular check-ups, and stand together in promoting health consciousness

Comptroller Bishen further advised that breast self-examinations should be done monthly, noting that early detection remains the most effective way to manage the disease. She explained that timely diagnosis increases the chances of successful treatment, including chemotherapy for advanced cases.

The Nursing Officer encouraged women to take charge of their health and not delay medical consultations when they notice unusual changes, stressing that through awareness, solidarity, and prompt medical action, many lives can be saved.

The President of Queenly Hospital Heart Foundation , who was represented by Mr Nelson Utuedoye, described knowledge as the strongest prescription against the silent killer. He noted that hidden diseases like cancer often develop quietly and can only be effectively managed when properly understood.

He explained that there are over 200 types of cancer, each named after the organ or tissue where it begins, noting that breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women globally, although men can also be affected. Family history, he added, plays a significant role in determining individual risk, highlighting the importance of regular medical checkups and screenings.

He commended COWA PTML Chapter for creating a platform that fosters open dialogue and proactive health practices among women. He urged members to continue supporting awareness campaigns and serve as ambassadors of hope, promoting a culture of health consciousness and early detection.