Traders at Sandgrouse Market in Lagos Island have expressed their profound appreciation to the government and the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), Lagos Branch, for the opportunity to receive free medical screenings aimed at preventing cervical cancer. This initiative, which took place during the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was met with great enthusiasm, with traders offering prayers for the President’s success and the smooth running of his government.
The commendation was made on Thursday during the YWCA Lagos Branch’s 8th Edition of the Free Medical Screening and Cancer Awareness Campaign at Sandgrouse Market, Lagos Island.
A Groundbreaking Initiative for Market Traders
Speaking with Cfame News Correspondent, the Iyaoloja of Sandgrouse/Araromi Market, Alhaja Modinat Adetayo Adesope, expressed her immense joy at the initiative, noting that it was the first time such a valuable healthcare campaign had been brought to the market. She emphasized the significant benefit to traders who often find it challenging to leave their shops for medical checkups.
Alhaja Adesope extended her heartfelt appreciation to YWCA for dedicating time and resources to screening traders and providing preventive healthcare solutions. Additionally, she commended the Iyaloja General of Nigeria, Chief Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, for her proactive efforts in sensitizing traders, enabling them to seize the opportunity for free medical care when it reached Sandgrouse Market.
She urged all participants to pay close attention to the medical advice given by doctors and to adhere strictly to the preventive measures outlined, particularly in the fight against breast and cervical cancer.
Call for Regular Health Checks
Dr. Olatokunbo Oseni, Vice Chairman of YWCA and President of YWCA Lagos Central Book, urged traders and community members to prioritize their health by undergoing regular medical checkups. She encouraged them to seek medical attention whenever they noticed unusual symptoms in their bodies, emphasizing that YWCA doctors and health workers are always available to provide free medical services at their clinic located on Apapa-Oshodi Expressway.
Dr. Oseni explained that the 8th edition of the market outreach was specifically designed for traders and local residents, particularly those who could not afford preventive healthcare. She highlighted that early detection of lifestyle diseases and certain cancers could help prevent their full manifestation.
During the screening exercise, Dr. Oseni noted the impressive turnout at the market, revealing that approximately 200 participants had already benefited from the initiative. She expressed delight at encountering a participant who had also attended YWCA’s first cancer awareness campaign at Tejuosho Market.
She further disclosed YWCA’s ambitious goal for this campaign:
- 300 participants to receive free eyeglasses
- 500 individuals to be screened for high blood pressure
- 200 women to undergo cervical cancer screenings
- 100 men to be screened for prostate cancer
She described YWCA as a faith-based healthcare organization and noted that its future outreach locations would be guided by divine direction.
Dr. Oseni also extended her appreciation to all sponsors of the 2025 Campaign, acknowledging their contributions and commending her colleagues for their dedication to improving community health.
Health Experts Provide Vital Information on Cancer Prevention
At the awareness campaign, Dr. Kehinde opened the program with a sing-along session, engaging participants before delivering crucial health information. She advised women to schedule their cervical cancer screenings four days after their menstrual periods and to conduct breast self-examinations every month following menstruation.
Regarding prostate cancer, Dr. Kehinde emphasized the importance of routine screenings for men to prevent the disease.
Practical Health Advice from Experts
Nurse Olori Oluwayemi Bamijoko, a PhD holder from Ogbogbo, Ijebu North East, Ogun State, advised women to avoid wearing thick clothing to bed to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. She emphasized that all women aged 25 and above should undergo cervical cancer screenings regularly. Once declared free of the disease, they should continue screening every two years for early detection.
She also highlighted the importance of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations, stating that:
- Girls aged 9 years should receive two doses of the vaccine
- Girls aged 15 and above should receive three doses to protect against HPV infection
Interactive Session on Prostate Cancer
Dr. Kayode Asiri conducted an engaging and interactive session on prostate cancer, explaining that the disease is influenced by testosterone, a hormone responsible for male characteristics such as a deep voice.
Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Health
Speaking on the role of diet in disease prevention, Dr. Omolola Odigwe stated that 70% of human deaths are linked to poor dietary choices. She urged everyone to adopt healthy eating habits by consuming natural, unprocessed foods that do not require labeling.
She cautioned against combining sugary drinks like Coca-Cola or Fanta with carbohydrate-heavy meals such as rice and stew with meat, as this can lead to severe health complications.
Additionally, Dr. Odigwe advised individuals to wait at least 3–4 hours after eating before sleeping, as this practice helps prevent heart-related issues.
Screening Results and Further Treatment
Ambassador Dominic Emetu Noble, Brand Ambassador for Clinix Healthcare, provided a summary of screening results, revealing that 84 participants had been tested for blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Disturbingly, many were unaware that they had elevated blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Dr. Oseni promptly intervened, arranging further treatment for 40 individuals diagnosed with serious health conditions. Ambassador Noble noted that many people over the age of 50 suffer from elevated blood pressure due to poor lifestyle choices. He urged everyone to increase their intake of natural foods and drinks, particularly water, to maintain good health.
A Call for Continued Health Awareness
The 8th Edition of the YWCA Free Medical Screening and Cancer Awareness Campaign at Sandgrouse Market was a resounding success, reaching hundreds of individuals with life-saving health information, screenings, and treatment opportunities.
With continued efforts from organizations like YWCA and support from the government, more communities across Nigeria can benefit from accessible healthcare and disease prevention programs.