‘One-Third Of Cancer Deaths Are Avoidable’

Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen has said that one -third of cancer deaths can be avoided through education and addressing the known modified risk factors.
Tallen said this during a World Cancer Day sensitisation walk organised by Onyebuchi Chris Ifediora (OCI) Foundation, BFA Food and Health Limited and Beauty For Ashes in Abuja yesterday.
The theme of this year’s day is “I am and I will’. The theme acknowledges that we all have the capacity to address the cancer burden, reduce the risk factors and over barriers to early diagnosis including treatment and palliative care.
Tallen, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Child Development Department from the Ministry, Mr Ali Madugu, said one of the major challenges facing the achievement of a healthy nation was the scourge of cancer.
“While cancer continues to tax the capacities of nations, communities and households, the most vulnerable of these groups is no doubt the women.
“Women are acknowledged as primary provider of healthcare for their families, their communities and societies and are likely to continue taking care of day and household needs even when they are sick.
“Yet many women are at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing information about cancer prevention, access to treatment and rehabilitation,” she said.