Gulf 2: the NGO VISA mobilizes municipal staff against female cancers

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Extract from the article: The NGO International Volunteers for Health Promotion in Africa (VISA) organized, on Wednesday 11 March, an awareness session for the staff of the Gulf 2 town hall, dedicated to female cancers, particularly cervical and breast.

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The NGO International Volunteers for Health Promotion in Africa (VISA) organized, on Wednesday 11 March, an awareness session for the staff of the Gulf 2 town hall, dedicated to female cancers, particularly cervical and breast.

This initiative aimed to inform municipal officials about these pathologies, their consequences as well as the means of prevention available in Togo. The meeting is part of the activities marking the celebration of International Women’s Day, commemorated on March 8. It aimed to draw attention to female cancers and encourage prevention within the municipal administration.

The awareness session was moderated by the head of the NGO VISA, Dr. Damien Ekoué Kouvahey. During his speech, he presented in detail the causes, the consequences as well as the methods of prevention of female cancers, particularly those of the breast and the cervix.

Fight against female cancers

According to Dr. Damien Ekoué Kouvahey, several factors can promote the onset of these cancers, including genetic predispositions, certain lifestyle habits and the lack of regular screening. The specialist also pointed out that one of the main dangers lies in the absence of symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

Many patients consult late, when the disease is already at an advanced stage. The consequences can be severe: chronic pain, haemorrhages, infertility, removal of organs, heavy treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and in the most severe cases, death," he regretted.

The doctor stressed the importance of awareness and early diagnosis, which significantly increase the chances of recovery. Prevention has thus been presented as the most effective weapon against these diseases.

For cervical cancer, regular screening by visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) or by smear allows early detection of precancerous lesions. Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV), recommended in young girls, is also a decisive means of protection.

Regarding breast cancer, Dr Ekoué Kouvahey stressed the importance of monthly self-examination from the age of 20, regular clinical examinations as well as mammography, depending on age or risk factors.

" Cancer is not inevitable. Detected early, it can be cured in many cases. Prevention saves lives", he hammered.

Receptive and committed agents

The participants welcomed this initiative which allowed them to acquire useful knowledge for the protection of their health and that of their relatives. The session gave rise to lively exchanges, as municipal officials asked many questions about the cost of screening, the care structures available in Togo, and the warning signs to monitor.

Through this activity, the NGO VISA and the Gulf 2 City Hall reaffirm their commitment to promoting community health. This awareness-raising session will thus have helped to lift some taboos and remind of an essential reality: in the face of female cancers, information, early detection and vaccination remain the most effective means to protect the lives of women in Togo.

William O.