The government of Lagos State has addressed concerns circulating in various communities nationwide.
They have reassured the people that the cancer vaccination does not induce infertility or promote promiscuity.
At the Hilda Egbo 10th Anniversary Cancer Free Gala celebration and Fundraising event. It took place on Friday in Ikoyi, Lagos. Mrs. Kemi Ogunyemi, who serves as the Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Health, made this statement.
Hilda, who has survived breast cancer, has made it her mission to raise two hundred million shillings for the St. Cyril Cancer Treatment Foundation throughout the course of her birthday celebration.
According to her statement, the funds will be used to broaden the scope of care services offered by the foundation. They will also acquire necessary equipment. Additionally, financial and palliative assistance will be provided to cancer patients who are financially disadvantaged.
Hilda stated, “I’m doing this fundraising. I believe there are many people who have a chance at survival just like I have. However, they don’t have the funds for it.”
“And, you know, funds are necessary because cancer care is very expensive. Everyone diagnosed with cancer has a chance at life. As a society, all of us should come together. We need to help more people who can’t afford treatment.”
Ogunyemi said that the state is constructing a comprehensive cancer center. It is also improving existing ones to make cancer treatment accessible. The goal is to make it inexpensive for residents of Lagos. She did this while praising the Hilda on her tenacity and defiance in the face of cancer.
“Lagos State government is subsidizing the cost of cancer treatment. We are partnering with cancer centers. We’re also building our own comprehensive cancer center. We are upgrading the ones that we have.
“That’s what we’re trying to do through the Lagos State Health Scheme (Ilera Eko). We’re expanding that to include cancer treatments. The premiums will be higher, but the amount of money that they’re going to be paying will actually be less.”
Ogunyemi debunked misconceptions and false information concerning the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. He emphasized that the vaccine does not produce any adverse effects.
“HPV vaccine is good, it’s free and it will prevent. It’s not going to do any harm. It won’t cause infertility. It won’t make the child promiscuous or anything like that. So we’re doing a lot of advocacy and awareness because when people know things, then they are able to make their own informed decisions”
Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, the President of the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS), stated that Hilda’s journey was amazing to many people. It serves as a light of strength and hope for those who continue to combat cancer.
“Survivorship is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of early detection. It also shows the importance of treatment. Support must be unwavering. Omonisi emphasized this point. Tinu Sanusi, the chairman of the National Council of Social Service in Lagos, represented Omonisi at the event.
Omonisi acknowledged the pivotal role that organizations such as the St. Cyril Foundation play in providing quality care.
Cancer is not a death sentence. It is a battle that can be overcome with the correct care. Determination and a strong support system are also crucial. Hilda’s tale serves as a reminder of this fact.
“At the NCS, our mission is rooted in the belief that no one should face cancer alone. NCS are committed to advocacy, education, early detection, patient support, and access to affordable, quality cancer care.
“We engage in strategic partnerships. We collaborate with national and international organizations. Our goal is to advance policies, initiatives, and interventions. These efforts aim to improve the overall cancer care landscape in Nigeria.”