| Ekujumi says October is dedicated to breast cancer awareness, early detection
| Fasiku highlights hereditary factors, lifestyle risks
The Oyenike Oyekan Foundation has provided free breast examinations to more than 80 women and girls in Ibadan, Oyo State, as part of activities marking the 2026 Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The programme, held at Oranyan Primary Health Centre (PHC), Oranyan, in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, featured an awareness lecture and free breast examinations aimed at educating participants on breast cancer, its symptoms, risk factors and the importance of early detection.
Participants included nursing mothers, pregnant women, young girls, healthcare workers and staff of the foundation.
Welcoming participants, the Managing Consultant of the Oyenike Oyekan Foundation, Nelson Ekujumi, said October was globally recognised as a period for raising awareness about breast cancer, promoting advocacy and encouraging screening.
He expressed concern that ignorance, myths, long-held beliefs and cultural practices often prevent women from seeking timely medical attention, thereby increasing the risk of late detection and avoidable deaths.
Ekujumi urged women and girls to take their breast health seriously and seek professional medical attention whenever they noticed unusual changes or symptoms.
In her presentation, the Matron of Oranyan PHC, Mrs Olufunke Ayoade, educated participants on breast cancer, its symptoms, possible causes and the appropriate steps to take when suspicious signs are noticed.
Ayoade delivered her presentation in Yoruba to ensure that participants understood the information and could apply the knowledge to their daily lives.
Similarly, Miss Precious Fasiku of the Oyenike Oyekan Foundation discussed factors associated with breast cancer, highlighting hereditary predisposition and lifestyle factors.
Another feature of the programme was the administration of questionnaires to assess participants’ knowledge of breast cancer, including its risk factors, symptoms and appropriate responses to suspected signs.
Following the awareness session, medical professionals mobilised by the foundation conducted free breast examinations for the participants.
More than 80 people benefited from the screening exercise, while some participants who spoke with our correspondent expressed appreciation to the Oyenike Oyekan Foundation for providing the opportunity to learn about breast cancer and access free examinations.
The initiative forms part of efforts to improve breast cancer awareness, encourage early detection and promote access to preventive healthcare among women and girls in the community.