*Calls for aggressive awareness for early detection
By; FUNMI ADERINTO, Kaduna
Following the rising cases of cancer patients in Nigeria, Hassy’s Haven Foundation has lamented that drugs shortages are affecting cancer treatments in Nigeria.
This was expressed during the official launch of Hassy’s Haven Foundation in Kaduna on Saturday, by the Founder/CEO, Husseina Yakubu.
“We are to raise awareness about cancer, it’s prevention and available support service”. She said.
This is just as the foundation called for an aggressive awareness campaign for early detection of the deadly disease, while also revealing that number of Nigerians who are down with cancer are far more than the available treatment in the country.
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Hassy’s Haven Foundation serves as a gentle tribute to late Hassana Yakubu, seeking to preserve her memory.
It signifies a comforting haven for orphans, less privileged girls and widows.
The name reflects a commitment to providing a supportive environment for individuals facing life’s challenges, echoing the comforting embrace that foundation aims to offer.
Also, the vision and mission is to reduce cancer mortality rate through increased awareness on preventive measures and management of cancer. Enhance the quality of lives of people living with cancer through provision of empowerment and support.
Data made available by the foundation, also revealed that in Nigeria, cancer leads to over 72,000 deaths per annum with male recording 30,924 deaths, while female had reached 40 647 deaths.
However, this number is set to increase given that there are 102,000 new cases of cancer every year with the estimated incidence for breast cancer at 27%, cervix uteri stands at 14%, liver at 12%, while prostate and colorectum are at 12% and 4.1% respectively. This, as disclosed by the National Cancer Control Plan (2018-2022).
Meanwhile, the founder of the foundation, however, advocated for more cancer treatment equipment in the country, especially in the North West.
While speaking to newsmen during the launching, Miss Hussaina Yakubu, explained that her late twin sister, Miss Hassana Mohammed Yakubu, died of cancer after demonstrating uncommon resilience for a few years after proper diagnosis was carried out.
On the reason for the establishment of the foundation, she said, ” the aim is to alert the public, and create awareness about the deadly disease, its prevention and available support services, among others.
“Findings have also shown that the majority of the cancer patients in the country cannot afford the available treatment within and outside the country, because most of the cancer relief drugs and chemotherapy are far beyond their reach.
“We are lending our voices to other Nigerians, while also calling on the federal and state government to declare a state of emergency on cancer in Nigeria. We saw the success recorded in the HIV/AIDS when it was made a top priority some decades ago.
“Again, we are calling on the governors of northwestern states of Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa and Sokoto, to immediately come together and equip the secondary and tertiary hospitals in the zone with cancer treatment equipment to reduce the nightmare of traveling far distance for chemotherapy.”
“Unveiling a transformative two-bedroom apartment as a haven for orphaned and underprivileged girls. Facilities include residential areas, an educational corner, a kitchen and future plans a skills acquisition centre, aiming to provide a nurturing environment for solace , support and opportunities to thrive.
“It also marked the begining of our commitment to providing a supportive environment and growth,” she said.
It would be recalled that late Hassana died of cancer in 2023, the foundation is an initiative inspired by her twin sister, Hassana Yakubu who valiantly battle cancer (Nasopharyngeal cancer) Nasopharynx (throat) behind the nose for eight years, experiencing the struggles, pains and challenges associated with the disease.
The foundation was established in her memory to support those facing similar battles, ensuring that their journey is met with compassion, support and opportunities for growth.
The initiative covers provision for welfare support for less privileged female members of the society with the aim of providing hope, resilience and ensure that no one faces challenges alone.
