KMedics Takes Breast Cancer Awareness Beyond Campaigns, Offers Free Screening in Kaduna

By Bashir Bello, Abuja

KMedics Diagnostic Laboratory has reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare delivery through professional laboratory investigations, advanced diagnostic services and public health education as it hosted its 2026 Breast Cancer Awareness programme in Kaduna.

Speaking at the event, the Manager of KMedics Diagnostic Laboratory, Moses Abode, highlighted the facility’s range of diagnostic and medical services, emphasising the importance of professional collaboration and public health education in improving healthcare outcomes.

Abode disclosed that KMedics provides laboratory services in Chemical Pathology, Haematology, Histopathology and Medical Microbiology, alongside ultrasound, medical imaging technology, mammography and endoscopy services.
“We remain committed to professional collaboration and public health education,” he said.

The programme, held on Friday under the theme, Beyond Awareness, featured free breast cancer screening and brought together medical professionals, cancer survivors, stakeholders and members of the public to promote early detection, accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

In his welcome address, Dr. Sulaiman Abdulkadir Saeed emphasised the importance of awareness, early diagnosis and patient-centred healthcare in tackling breast cancer.

He said KMedics prioritises competent personnel and reliable laboratory investigations to support accurate diagnosis, stressing that patients must receive the attention and care they deserve.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Maryam Ibrahim Bindawa, who presented a paper titled Beyond the Microscope: Integrating Histopathology and Molecular Pathology, explained the critical role of laboratory investigations in identifying cancer cells and supporting effective diagnosis.

She noted that breast cancer diagnosis increasingly relies on combining proper tissue processing with accurate molecular testing.

Dr. Bindawa identified late presentation as a major challenge in breast cancer management, attributing delays in seeking medical attention to fear, inadequate information, financial constraints, cultural beliefs and misconceptions.

According to her, breast cancer awareness must extend beyond public campaigns to include knowledge of warning signs, access to qualified healthcare professionals, appropriate investigations and timely referrals for treatment.

She urged women not to ignore unusual breast changes or allow fear and stigma to discourage them from seeking medical attention.

Also speaking, Dr. Bilkisu Usman Farouk, in a presentation titled Beyond the Lump: The Role of Medical Imaging in Early Breast Cancer Detection, explained that breast imaging helps medical professionals identify abnormalities, assess their possible implications and determine appropriate next steps.

She noted that although breast cancer is common, not every breast symptom or imaging finding indicates cancer.

Dr. Farouk also highlighted the importance of age-appropriate breast examinations and regular medical assessments.

Sharing her experience, cancer survivor Mrs. Phoebe Sukai Yayi called for greater compassion, support and an end to discrimination against people living with cancer.

Recounting how she discovered an unusual change in her breast on January 9, 2013, Yayi described herself as a survivor and warrior, urging women not to conceal symptoms or delay seeking medical attention.

“Cancer patients do not need pity; they need treatment, care and support,” she emphasised.

She further encouraged survivors to use their experiences to educate others and promote a supportive environment free from stigma.

Professor Modupeola Omotara O.A. Samaila, Professor of Pathology and President-elect of the West African Division of the International Academy of Pathology (WADIAP), also stressed the importance of early detection and regular medical check-ups in tackling cancer.

She advised members of the public to prioritise screening as an important step towards early detection.

Similarly, the Kaduna State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mrs Gloria Ibrahim, reiterated Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to ensuring that residents continue to benefit from the laudable programmes of the state government.

She assured that the government would continue to partner with stakeholders to create greater awareness about breast cancer.

The programme concluded with free breast cancer screening for participants, reinforcing the organisers’ message that effective cancer advocacy must translate into practical action, accessible diagnostic services and timely medical intervention.