In a concerted effort to raise awareness about the widespread threat of cancer, Jacaranda Cancer Center organised a public enlightenment programme in a public school in Abeokuta,Ogun State capital.
The venue was Ijemo High School, Ibara Abeokuta, where the focus was on educating secondary school students about the development, prevention, and treatment of various types of cancer.
Dr.Bolade Olaoluwa, a prominent figure at Jacaranda Cancer Center, who represents the Medical Director of the centre, Dr. Kehinde Ololade, addressed the students, shedding light on the intricacies of cancer.
She emphasised the importance of understanding that cancer involves the abnormal multiplication of cells within the body, manifesting in various types such as breast cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, kidney cancer, skin cancer, and blood cancer.
During the public speaking session, Dr. Olaoluwa underscored the significance of regular self-breast examinations for females, advocating for hygiene practices as part of preventive measures.
Dr. Olaoluwa offered practical advice on cancer prevention, stressing the role of a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits, while minimizing the intake of junk food, carbonated drinks, and sugary items.
She highlighted the importance of regular exercise, adequate sleep, and knowing one’s family medical history for early detection through regular check-ups.
Addressing the students, she cautioned against neglecting signs of abnormal health, urging them to seek professional help if they experience irregularities like changes in toilet habits, unexplained weight loss, or uncontrollable bleeding from minor injuries.
The doctor also highlighted the link between skin cancer and exposure to sunlight, recommending the use of sunscreen for protection.
She sternly warned against the use of bleaching creams, linking them to an increased risk of cancer and kidney diseases due to the removal of the skin’s protective layer.
Dr. Olaoluwa stressed the importance of mammograms for females aged 40 and above, as a crucial test for early detection and prevention of breast cancer.
In a final note, Dr. Olaoluwa assured the students that cancer is neither a death sentence nor an inevitability.
She emphasized that cancer is curable, preventable, and maintaining good lifestyle habits, including avoiding the use of bleaching cream, contributes to overall well-being.
In an interview, Dr. Olaoluwa shared advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, highlighting the diverse therapeutic approaches implemented once the disease is detected.
The event served as a significant step in educating the younger generation about the importance of cancer awareness and prevention, ultimately contributing to a healthier society.
Credit: Platform Times
