Firm urges women to prioritise annual screening during breast cancer month

As the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, PPC Limited, a Nigerian engineering and infrastructure development company, with a growing footprint in the healthcare sector, has urged women in Nigeria to prioritise early detection through annual mammograms, particularly those aged 40 and above.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 2.3 million women worldwide were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, and Nigeria accounts for nearly 12 percent of Africa’s cases. Dr. Emmanuel Iyere, Head of Diagnostics Services at PPC Limited, noted that breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women globally and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. In Nigeria, late presentation is one of the biggest challenges, with up to 70 percent of women diagnosed only at advanced stages of the disease.

“Early detection through screening remains the single most effective way to reduce breast cancer mortality. Annual mammograms for women above 40 and timely follow-up of abnormal results can make the difference between life-saving treatment and late-stage outcomes. Nigerian women must have both access and awareness,” Dr. Iyere emphasised.

Through its healthcare division, PPC will be offering discounted mammogram services for the next two months, ensuring more women can access this vital diagnostic tool. This initiative underscores PPC’s mission to bridge gaps in diagnostic care and strengthen preventive healthcare in Nigeria. Dr. Iyere urged women to take advantage of this opportunity and get tested.

He also called on stakeholders to focus on improving diagnostic infrastructure across the country, noting that better access to mammograms, combined with increased public awareness, could significantly reduce breast cancer-related deaths.