The NGO VISA raises awareness among Golfe 5 town hall staff about women's cancers

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Extract from the article: On Thursday 5 March, the NGO International Volunteers for Health Promotion in Africa (VISA) raised awareness among Golfe 5 town hall staff about women's cancers (cervical and breast cancer). The session aimed to inform municipal officials about these

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On Thursday 5 March, the NGO International Volunteers for Health Promotion in Africa (VISA) raised awareness among Golfe 5 town hall staff about women's cancers (cervical and breast cancer). The session aimed to inform municipal officials about these diseases, their consequences and the means of prevention available in Togo.

The meeting, which was part of the activities marking the celebration of International Women's Day on 8 March, aimed to draw attention to women's cancers and encourage prevention within the municipal administration.

Awareness was raised by the head of the NGO VISA, Dr Damien Ekoué Kouvahey. During his presentation, he gave a detailed overview of the causes, consequences and means of prevention of female cancers, particularly breast and cervical cancer.

Fighting female cancers

According to Dr Damien Ekoué Kouvahey, several factors can contribute to the development of these cancers, including genetic predisposition, certain lifestyle habits and a lack of regular screening. Dr Damien Ekoué-Kouvahey has pointed out that the main danger lies in the absence of symptoms in the early stages. ‘Many patients seek medical advice late, when the disease is already advanced. The consequences can be serious: chronic pain, haemorrhaging, infertility, organ removal, heavy treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and, in the most severe cases, death,’ said the doctor regretfully.

He emphasised the importance of awareness and early diagnosis, which can significantly increase the chances of recovery. At the heart of the discussions, prevention was presented as the most effective weapon against these diseases. For cervical cancer, regular screening by visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) or smear tests enables early detection of precancerous lesions. Vaccination against HPV, recommended for young girls, is also a key means of protection.

With regard to breast cancer, Dr Ekoué-Kouvahey emphasised the importance of monthly self-examination from the age of 20, regular clinical examinations and mammograms depending on age or risk factors. ‘Cancer is not inevitable. When detected early, it can be cured in many cases. Prevention saves lives,’ he stressed.

Receptive and committed officials

Participants welcomed this initiative, which enabled them to acquire useful knowledge for protecting their health and that of their loved ones. The session gave rise to lively discussions. Municipal officials asked numerous questions about the cost of screening, the care facilities available in Togo, and the warning signs to watch out for.

‘We are at the service of the population, but we must also take care of our own health. This session reminds us of our individual responsibility. The information we have received will enable us to raise awareness among more women within families and communities,’ said Adjovi Atsou, Director of Human Resources at Golfe 5 Town Hall.

A commitment to public health

Through this activity, the NGO VISA and the Golfe 5 town hall reaffirm their commitment to promoting community health. This awareness-raising session will have helped to break down taboos and remind people of an obvious fact: when it comes to women's cancers, information, early screening and vaccination remain the best weapons for protecting the lives of women in Togo.

William O.