NBA Women Forum Leads Cancer Awareness Walk in Awka, Announces Free Cervical Cancer Screening

By Ukpa Ewa

The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF), Anambra State Chapter, has intensified the campaign for cancer awareness, early detection and preventive healthcare with a health walk through major parts of Awka, the Anambra State capital.

The walk, held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, commenced at the Nigerian Bar Association premises in Awka, proceeded through Quarter Junction and terminated at Solution Fun City, Awka.

The initiative formed part of activities marking Cancer Awareness Week, aimed at educating the public on cancer prevention, the importance of regular medical examinations and the need to embrace healthier lifestyles.

Speaking with journalists during the exercise, the Chairman of the NBA Awka Branch, Barr. Nnamdi Raphael Anagor, said the health walk complemented earlier activities organised to educate the public about cancer and encourage preventive healthcare.

He explained that the awareness campaign was designed to help people understand cancer risks, recognise the importance of early detection and take appropriate steps to protect their health.

Anagor particularly highlighted the need for increased awareness of prostate cancer among men, noting that lifestyle choices, dietary habits and genetic factors could influence cancer risks.

He urged men aged 40 and above to prioritise regular medical examinations and seek professional medical advice based on their individual health circumstances.

The NBA Awka Branch chairman also emphasised the importance of physical exercise in maintaining overall health, encouraging both men and women to incorporate regular walking and other physical activities into their daily routines.

According to him, maintaining an active lifestyle can contribute to general well-being and help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

NBA Women Forum Advocates Regular Cancer Screening

Also speaking, the Facilitator of the NBA Women Forum, Awka Branch, Barr. Obianuju Nwakpadolu, said the exercise was intended to raise public awareness about cancer prevention, early detection and the importance of routine health checks.

She stressed that lawyers, whose professional responsibilities often involve demanding schedules, should make their health a priority.

Nwakpadolu said regular medical examinations were essential for maintaining good health and sustaining productive professional careers.

She identified prostate and colorectal cancers among the health concerns requiring attention among men, while highlighting breast and cervical cancers as major concerns for women.

The facilitator encouraged women, particularly those aged 35 to 40 and above, to undergo appropriate medical examinations and seek professional advice on breast health.

She also advised women to remain vigilant about unusual breast changes, including lumps, and seek prompt medical evaluation when such symptoms occur.

On cervical cancer prevention, Nwakpadolu urged women to consult qualified healthcare professionals about appropriate screening and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination.

She emphasised that preventive measures and timely medical intervention could reduce cervical cancer risks and improve health outcomes.

Nwakpadolu further noted that regular physical activity contributes to both physical and mental well-being, urging legal practitioners and members of the public to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Free Cervical Cancer Screening for Female Lawyers

In a significant announcement, Nwakpadolu disclosed that the NBA Women Forum would organise free cervical cancer screening for female lawyers across the Nigerian Bar Association on October 24, 2026.

The initiative is expected to encourage more women in the legal profession to access preventive healthcare services and take proactive steps towards protecting their health.

She also appealed to the government to improve access to HPV vaccines and expand the availability of cervical cancer screening services.

According to her, making preventive healthcare more accessible and affordable, including the provision of subsidised Pap smear tests, would encourage more women to undergo screening and help reduce barriers to early detection.

Free Medical Checks Highlight Importance of Preventive Healthcare

The awareness walk also featured free medical screening for participants, including blood pressure and blood sugar checks.

The exercise reinforced the NBA Women Forum’s call for regular health examinations, increased cancer awareness and the adoption of healthier lifestyles.

Through the initiative and its planned free cervical cancer screening programme, the forum is seeking to encourage members of the legal profession and the wider public to pay greater attention to preventive healthcare.

The campaign also underscores the importance of public education, accessible screening services and timely medical consultations in improving cancer awareness and promoting better health outcomes.

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