ACTF Participation in World Cancer Day Commemoration and Cancer Awareness Activities
On Tuesday, 3rd February, the African Child Trust Foundation (ACTF), represented by the Program Manager and one of its dedicated volunteers, Mr. Abdusalam, participated in activities organized by the Nigerian Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) in commemoration of the International Cancer Week, leading up to the annual World Cancer Day observed globally on the 4th of February.
As part of the activities, ACTF joined healthcare professionals, stakeholders, and members of the public at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, where free cancer screening and testing services were provided for prostate, cervical, and breast cancer. The initiative aimed to increase public awareness, promote early detection, and encourage preventive healthcare practices among citizens.
On the 4th of February, the Program Manager further represented ACTF at a high-level symposium and the launch of cancer screening, testing, and treatment centers organized by NICRAT at Rock View Royale Hotel, Wuse II, Abuja. The event brought together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s health sector to discuss progress in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and policy implementation across the country.
Distinguished attendees included the Honourable Minister of State for Health, representatives of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), the President of the Nigeria Cancer Society, the Director-General of NICRAT, development partners, healthcare professionals, and other relevant stakeholders committed to the fight against cancer in Nigeria.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the National Policy Plan on Cancer and the presentation of achievements recorded thus far in strengthening cancer care services nationwide. Following the unveiling, the Honourable Minister officially launched twelve (12) cancer screening, testing, and treatment centers across the federation, marking a significant step toward expanding access to cancer care services for Nigerians.
Project Highlights:
Participation in Free Cancer Screening Exercise
ACTF joined NICRAT and healthcare providers at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, in promoting free cancer screening services for members of the public. The exercise focused on:
- Prostate cancer screening for men.
- Cervical cancer screening for women.
- Breast cancer awareness and screening.
- Public education on cancer prevention and early detection.
The initiative encouraged individuals to take proactive steps toward monitoring their health and seeking timely medical intervention when necessary.
Advocacy for Early Detection and Prevention
During the outreach activities, participants received information on cancer risk factors, warning signs, preventive measures, and the importance of regular medical checkups. The campaign emphasized that early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Attendance at National Cancer Symposium
The Program Manager participated in the symposium organized by NICRAT, which provided a platform for dialogue among policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, civil society organizations, and development partners on strengthening cancer prevention and treatment systems in Nigeria.
Launch of Cancer Screening and Treatment Centers
A key milestone of the event was the launch of twelve cancer screening, testing, and treatment centers across Nigeria. This initiative is expected to improve access to cancer care, particularly for underserved populations who often face challenges in obtaining timely diagnosis and treatment.
Unveiling of the National Policy Plan on Cancer
The unveiling of the National Policy Plan on Cancer demonstrated the government’s commitment to addressing the growing burden of cancer through coordinated policy implementation, improved healthcare infrastructure, research, public awareness, and access to quality treatment services
Impact
The activities commemorating International Cancer Week and World Cancer Day contributed to several important outcomes:
Increased Public Awareness
The free screening exercise and awareness activities educated members of the public about various forms of cancer, risk factors, preventive measures, and the importance of routine health screenings.
Promotion of Early Detection
By providing free access to cancer screening services, the initiative enabled individuals to identify potential health concerns early, improving opportunities for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
Strengthened Health Advocacy
ACTF’s participation reinforced its commitment to supporting public health initiatives and promoting preventive healthcare practices within communities.
Enhanced Access to Cancer Care
The launch of twelve cancer screening, testing, and treatment centers represents a significant advancement in expanding access to quality cancer services across Nigeria, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations.
Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
The event fostered stronger collaboration among government institutions, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, advocacy groups, and development partners working collectively to reduce the burden of cancer in Nigeria.
Support for National Health Priorities
The unveiling of the National Policy Plan on Cancer provided a strategic framework for addressing cancer-related challenges and improving healthcare outcomes nationwide.
Vision
ACTF envisions a society where individuals and communities are empowered with the knowledge, resources, and access needed to prevent, detect, and manage health conditions effectively. Recognizing the growing impact of non-communicable diseases such as cancer, the Foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote health awareness, disease prevention, and access to quality healthcare services.
Through advocacy, community engagement, partnerships, and health education programs, ACTF seeks to:
- Increase awareness of cancer prevention and early detection.
- Promote healthy lifestyles and preventive healthcare practices.
- Support equitable access to health screening and treatment services.
- Encourage regular health checks and timely medical intervention.
- Strengthen partnerships with government agencies, healthcare institutions, and development organizations.
- Contribute to national and global efforts aimed at reducing cancer-related illness and mortality.
ACTF believes that informed and healthy communities are better positioned to thrive, contribute meaningfully to society, and achieve sustainable development.
