***Says 29-year survival journey inspired BRECAN
Founder of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), Dr Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has urged Nigerians to prioritise early detection and timely treatment of breast cancer, declaring that a diagnosis of the disease should not be regarded as a death sentence.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu, who has lived with the experience of breast cancer for more than 29 years, made the call on Sunday during an awareness programme at St. Mulumba Catholic Parish, Owerri, Imo State, where she encouraged women to pay attention to changes in their breasts and seek prompt medical attention.
She stressed that although breast cancer predominantly affects women, men could also develop the disease, making awareness a collective responsibility.
The advocate, who was accompanied by members of the Ada Owere Campaign Organisation, said her decision to establish BRECAN followed her breast cancer diagnosis in 1997 and her determination to transform a personal health challenge into a lifelong mission to educate and support others.
She explained that her experience had reinforced her belief that timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and a strong support system could make a significant difference in the lives of people affected by the disease.
According to her, late presentation remains a major challenge in breast cancer management, with fear, stigma, inadequate awareness, financial constraints and reliance on unproven remedies sometimes preventing patients from seeking appropriate medical care.
She urged women to watch out for warning signs, including unusual breast lumps, changes in breast shape or size, skin dimpling, nipple inversion and abnormal discharge, advising them to consult qualified healthcare professionals whenever they notice suspicious changes.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu cautioned that breast cancer could occur without pain, noting that waiting for a lump to become painful before seeking medical attention could lead to dangerous delays.
She also encouraged women to discuss appropriate screening options with healthcare professionals, particularly those with a family history of breast cancer or other significant risk factors.
The BRECAN founder, however, warned against misinformation and misconceptions that associate cancer with spiritual attacks or a lack of faith, stressing that such beliefs could discourage patients from accessing potentially life-saving treatment.
She maintained that prayer and medical care could complement each other, urging religious leaders to promote health education, encourage early medical assessment and provide practical and emotional support for members living with cancer.
A highlight of the visit was her encounter with a woman who had been living with breast cancer for three years. Anyanwu-Akeredolu offered her encouragement and discussed healthy living, emotional well-being and the importance of family support and connecting with organisations such as BRECAN.
The presence of the woman’s teenage son, who had accompanied her to church, further reinforced the advocate’s message about finding strength in family relationships while navigating the challenges of illness.
She urged families and communities to support people living with breast cancer without discrimination, emphasising that a diagnosis should not diminish anyone’s dignity or sense of worth.
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu expressed appreciation to the parish priest, Reverend Father Raymond Kojo Madu, for providing the opportunity to address the congregation, adding that sustained community engagement was essential to breaking the silence surrounding breast cancer.
She called on Nigerians to move beyond symbolic awareness campaigns and embrace practical actions that promote early detection, timely treatment and compassionate support for patients and survivors.
