Cancer not a death sentence – Imo deputy

DDM News

Imo State Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru, PhD, has urged individuals battling cancer to remain strong and committed to their treatment.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports, she emphasized that early detection and proper management prevent cancer from becoming a death sentence.

She made this statement on Wednesday when the Heart and Roses Cancer Foundation visited her office at the Government House, Owerri.

She commended the foundation for giving hope, saving lives, and strengthening society through its cancer awareness initiatives.

She expressed delight that the foundation’s programs target not only adults but also primary and secondary school students.

She noted that educating young people about cancer and preventive healthcare would help reduce the disease’s prevalence.

She encouraged Imo residents to use the state’s healthcare facilities for routine medical check-ups and early detection.

She stressed that regular screenings and disciplined health practices could prevent unnecessary deaths from cancer and other diseases.

“It is true that cancer is one of the deadliest diseases worldwide, but today, it is no longer a death sentence,” she stated.

She urged the public to undergo routine medical check-ups and cancer screenings to increase their chances of early detection.

She explained that while individuals aged 40 and above face higher risks, cancer can affect people of all ages.

She insisted that public awareness campaigns must reach all age groups to ensure widespread knowledge of cancer risks.

She advised the Heart and Roses Cancer Foundation to incorporate nutrition, exercise, and preventive healthcare into their awareness programs.

She suggested that the group engage professionals like dietitians to educate people on healthy lifestyles and cancer prevention.

She encouraged the foundation to collaborate with key state ministries to enhance the impact of its awareness programs.

She specifically mentioned the Ministries of Health, Education, Women Affairs, and Information as potential partners in the campaign.

She urged the group to seek support from the First Lady of Imo State, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma.

She praised the First Lady’s dedication to assisting the needy and described her as a valuable partner in the fight against cancer.

She encouraged the foundation to visit cancer centers across the state, interact with patients, and offer them moral support.

She assured the group that the Imo State Government had created an enabling environment to improve healthcare services.

She stated that Governor Hope Uzodimma remains committed to strengthening the healthcare sector for the benefit of all residents.

She added that the government welcomes organizations like the Heart and Roses Cancer Foundation and is willing to support their efforts.

She urged the foundation to continue its mission of saving lives through cancer education and patient support programs.

Earlier, the leader of the Heart and Roses Cancer Foundation, Dr. Patricia Dozie, explained the purpose of their visit.

She said the foundation wanted to align with the Imo State Government and share its cancer awareness activities.

She stated that the foundation educates people in schools, public institutions, and military barracks about cancer prevention and management.

She explained that their awareness programs cover all types of cancer, including breast, lung, uterine, and prostate cancer.

She assured the public that although cancer remains a serious health challenge, early detection significantly improves survival rates.

She emphasized that cancer no longer poses a hopeless threat when patients receive timely medical care.

She encouraged people to prioritize regular check-ups and adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce their cancer risk.

She reaffirmed the foundation’s dedication to ensuring that Imo residents receive the right information about cancer prevention and treatment.

She urged stakeholders to work together to raise awareness and provide necessary support for cancer patients.

She thanked the Imo State Government for its commitment to healthcare development and patient welfare.

She expressed optimism about future collaborations that would further strengthen cancer awareness and treatment efforts in the state.

The Principal Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Pastor Chris Akushie, and other senior officials witnessed the visit.

The meeting reinforced both parties’ commitment to reducing cancer-related deaths and improving healthcare access in Imo State.

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