NBA Women Forum Holds Cancer Awareness Walk in Awka
By Ukpa Ewa
The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF), Anambra State Chapter, on Saturday, October 17, 2026, held a health walk in Awka to promote cancer awareness, regular medical screening and physical fitness.
The walk commenced at the NBA premises in Awka, passed through Quarter Junction and terminated at Solution Fun City, Awka. It formed part of activities to educate the public on cancer prevention, early detection and healthy living.
Speaking with journalists, Chairman of the NBA Awka Branch, Barr. Nnamdi Raphael Anagor, said the health walk was part of activities to commemorate Cancer Awareness Week, which began with talks and lectures. He explained that the initiative was aimed at educating the public about cancer and encouraging people to take necessary precautions.
Anagor emphasised prostate cancer awareness among men, noting that dietary habits, lifestyle choices and genetic factors could contribute to cancer risks. He urged men aged 40 and above to undergo regular medical examinations and seek appropriate medical advice based on their health status.
He also highlighted the importance of physical exercise in promoting overall health and reducing the risk of certain cancers, encouraging men and women to embrace regular walking and other healthy lifestyle practices.
Similarly, facilitator of the NBA Women Forum, Awka Branch, Barr. Obianuju Nwakpadolu, said the walk aimed to raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection. She stressed that regular health checks were essential for lawyers to maintain good health and sustain productive professional careers.
Nwakpadolu identified prostate and colon cancers among health concerns affecting men, while highlighting breast and cervical cancers as major concerns for women. She encouraged women, particularly those aged 35 to 40 and above, to undergo regular medical examinations and perform breast self-examinations to identify unusual lumps and seek medical attention promptly.
On cervical cancer prevention, she advised sexually active women to undergo appropriate screening and seek medical guidance on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. She emphasised that early detection and preventive measures could reduce cancer risks and improve health outcomes, adding that physical fitness supports both mental and physical health.
Nwakpadolu further disclosed that the forum would organise free cervical cancer screening for female lawyers across the NBA on October 24, 2026. She also appealed to government to improve access to HPV vaccines and provide cervical cancer screening services, including Pap smear tests at subsidised rates.
The event featured free medical screening for participants, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks, reinforcing the forum’s call for regular health examinations, cancer awareness and healthier lifestyles.
