Oyo Government Flags Off Free Cancer Screening, Urges Early Detection on World Breast Cancer Day

Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Health, commemorated the 2025 World Breast Cancer Day by launching a comprehensive, free breast and prostate cancer screening exercise for residents.

The event successfully brought together health professionals, government officials, and the public to raise vital awareness about the importance of early detection, screening, and prevention of breast cancer.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, who was represented by the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Olufemi Adesanya reiterated that “Every October is a pink month, a time to commemorate breast cancer awareness. It is not just for celebration but for creating awareness about prevention and early detection.”

Dr. Adesanya emphasized the severity of the disease, noting that, “A lot of women die every year due to breast cancer, but it can be detected early and early detection saves lives.” He urged attendees to take the opportunity of the professional practitioners who were on ground to provide free breast cancer screenings for women and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests for men serious.

He expressed gratitude to the First Lady of Oyo State, Engr. Tamunominini Makinde and the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi for their consistent support of public health initiatives.

The event also featured health education, titled “Breast Cancer and Self-Breast Examination” which was delivered by Mrs. B.A. Adeoye, the Oyo State Deputy Director, Nursing Services. She educated participants on the signs and symptoms, and prevention methods. Mrs. Adeoye stressed that while breast cancer is serious, it is not limited to women, men can also develop breast cancer, it is highly treatable when detected early. Concluding, “Breast cancer is a serious but treatable disease. Together, we can reduce breast cancer.”

In his remarks at the event, Pharmacist Tosin Ishola, a representative of the Oyekan Oyenike Foundation, reaffirmed the Foundation’s dedication to advancing public health through strategic collaborations. He expressed deep appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde, the Ministry of Health, and the Department of Non-Communicable Diseases for their continued support of initiatives that improve the well-being of Oyo residents.

“At the Oyekan Oyenike Foundation, we believe that awareness saves lives. Every woman deserves access to the right information, screening, and care. This partnership with the Oyo State Government reinforces our shared commitment to reducing preventable deaths and supporting women through every stage of their health journey,” Ishola stated.

In her vote of thanks, the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Desk Officer Mrs. Christianah Adedeji, extended her appreciation to the Almighty God. She thanked the Oyenike Oyekan for their support and strongly urged women to seek prompt medical attention at the very first sign of changes in their breasts. “If you notice any redness, swelling, or unusual signs, consult a medical professional immediately,” she advised.