Mother’s Day: Ansar-ud-Deen women raise awareness on cervical cancer

From Femi Oyelola in Kaduna

The women’s wing of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society, Kaduna branch, has called for increased awareness and regular screening for cervical cancer as part of activities marking this year’s Mother’s Day celebration.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Hassan Ismail, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of the Kaduna branch, Alhaji Moshood Akinsanya, said the day was set aside to honor mothers for their vital roles in Islam, nation-building, and nurturing society. In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Kaduna branch, Hajia Wosilat Sanni, alongside the Secretary, Hajia Taobat Faro, said the program was aimed at celebrating mothers, empowering women, and conferring merit awards on deserving individuals.

The guest speaker, Dr. Fatima Bakare, Head of the Gynecology Department at Yusuf Dantsoho Teaching Hospital, emphasized the importance of prioritizing health, describing it as a key pillar for a productive life.

She urged women to pay attention to their mental health, maintain a balanced diet, and embrace regular medical check-ups, especially from the age of 35.

Bakare stressed the need for early detection of cervical cancer, noting that the disease is on the rise but largely preventable.

Women from the age of 21 should begin regular Pap smear tests. Early detection can save lives,” she said.

She also encouraged breast and cervical cancer screening, warning that cases are increasingly being detected among older women.

The medical expert further raised concern over the rising incidence of kidney-related diseases, attributing part of the problem to unhealthy lifestyles and the use of certain cosmetic products.

“There is a silent kidney killer among women, and that includes some of the toning creams being used. We must be cautious,” she warned.

Bakare advised women to adopt healthier lifestyles, including increased consumption of vegetables, reduced intake of processed foods, regular blood pressure checks, and maintaining proper hygiene.

As part of the program, the women’s wing set up a health desk where participants were screened for blood pressure, blood sugar, and other health conditions.

In a lecture on parenting, Sheik Maruf Imam Gbadamosi cautioned against over-reliance on nannies, warning that it could expose children to neglect or abuse.

He urged parents to take direct responsibility for raising their children and to combine formal education with sound Islamic upbringing. “Parents must lead by example and ensure their children receive proper moral and religious guidance,” he said.