In a recent health awareness initiative, female members of the Association of Agricultural Entrepreneurs of Woleu-Ntem (AEA) were educated on breast and cervical cancer at Elik-Alen village, about 20 kilometers from Oyem in northern Gabon. The event, organized at the Eramu cooperative in the Kye canton, aimed to encourage rural women to undergo screening and adopt preventive measures against these diseases.
The event featured a keynote address by Louise Nze Obame, representative of AEA President Gisèle Okome Ebenaga, who emphasized the importance of prioritizing one's health. She encouraged the women to undergo screening, citing that early detection can save lives. According to Obame, breast cancer, one of the most common cancers among women, has a high cure rate of nine out of ten cases if detected early.
Obame stressed the need for regular self-examination and medical consultation, highlighting that these simple actions can make a significant difference in preventing and detecting cancer. She also urged the women to spread the awareness message to their daughters, sisters, and nieces, encouraging them to undergo screening for breast and cervical cancer.
Dr. Elodie Ntsame, an emergency physician, discussed the risk factors associated with breast and cervical cancer. She mentioned that hereditary factors contribute to breast cancer, while cervical cancer can be caused by a virus contracted through unprotected sex. Dr. Ntsame also encouraged rural women to take advantage of the annual Octobre Rose campaign, which offers free screening exams.
The awareness session was followed by breast cancer screening exams conducted by two medical doctors present at the event. Additionally, blood pressure checks were performed, providing the women with an opportunity to monitor their overall health. The initiative was part of a broader effort to promote health and well-being among rural women in Gabon.
The event was organized by the Gabonese Press Agency and held at the Eramu cooperative in the Kye canton. It was attended by female members of the AEA, who showed enthusiasm and interest in learning about cancer prevention and early detection. The program aimed to promote a culture of health awareness and preventive care among rural women.
The campaign, which took place on October 31, was part of a larger effort to educate women about the importance of early detection and prevention of breast and cervical cancer. By empowering women with knowledge and resources, the initiative sought to promote a healthier and more informed community in rural Gabon.
Key points
- The event educated female entrepreneurs on breast and cervical cancer and encouraged them to undergo screening and adopt preventive measures.
- Early detection of breast cancer has a high cure rate of nine out of ten cases.
- The initiative promoted a culture of health awareness and preventive care among rural women in Gabon.
