The David Omenukor Foundation has provided free cancer screenings to over 1,000 individuals at a large-scale intervention marking the 2026 Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
Themed, “Blue Hat & Bow Tie,” the awareness campaign held at Golden Vista Hotel, attracted participants from across Imo state for comprehensive screening exercises, health education sessions, and expert-led workshops aimed at combating late-stage cancer diagnoses.
Speaking at the event, the Imo state First Lady, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, lauded the foundation’s proactive intervention.
Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Chioma Vivian Egu, the first lady stressed the critical importance of early detection and healthy living, urging the public to remain vigilant for symptoms such as persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal discomfort, and unexplained fatigue.
Barrister Uzodimma while reiterating her commitment to cancer advocacy through initiatives such as the Good Hope Women Flourish Initiative and First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), called for sustained awareness efforts to break the silence and stigma surrounding colorectal cancer.
A Consultant at the Federal University Teaching Hospital Owerri, Dr Christopher Ekwunife, highlighted the growing concern of early-onset colorectal cancer in developing countries, saying, timely screening remains the most effective preventive strategy.
“At an early stage, it is easier to treat, less expensive, and has fewer long-term consequences. These are preventable deaths if detected early,” he stated.
The Founder and CEO of the Foundation, Dr Keyna Omenukor, in his welcome address said there is the urgent need for individuals to take proactive steps toward their health by embracing regular screenings and open conversations about colorectal cancer.
The Commissioner for Tertiary and Technical Education, Prof. Victor Nwachukwu, in his remarks promised to disseminate key health information from the workshop across tertiary institutions, targeting young people as critical stakeholders in public health awareness.
Stakeholders at the event advocated collective efforts to prioritize early detection, expand awareness, and safeguard the health of Nigerians.