The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), under the leadership of the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, in collaboration with the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Edo State, and OCF Foundation, commemorated World Cancer Day 2026 from Monday, 2nd February to Thursday, 5th February 2026, in alignment with the global theme “United by Unique”.
The programme was aimed at raising public awareness on cancer, promoting early detection, and encouraging proactive health-seeking behaviour among members of the public.
Activities commenced on Monday, 2nd February 2026, with a health awareness talk on Independent Television and continued on Wednesday, 4th February 2026, with a cancer awareness road walk which started from the UBTH Reception.
The road walk featured healthcare professionals, representatives of partner organizations, students of UBTH schools and members of the public.
During the exercise, participants engaged the public with key messages on cancer prevention, early detection, and the importance of routine screening, reinforcing UBTH’s commitment to preventive healthcare and community engagement.
The commemoration continued on Thursday, 5th February 2026, with a free cancer screening exercise held at the Doctors’ House.
Screening services provided included cervical cancer screening for women and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) screening for men.
Over the course of the exercise, 195 individuals were attended to, with 108 women screened for cervical cancer and 87 men screened for prostate cancer (PSA). 27 men screened positive for PSA and 60 screened positive for VIA screening
Participants also received health education, counseling, and guidance on cancer prevention, risk factors, and the need for regular medical check-ups.
The screening exercise recorded a high turnout, reflecting growing public awareness and trust in UBTH’s community health initiatives.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the opportunity to access professional screening services at no cost.
The World Cancer Day 2026 activities further highlighted the commitment of UBTH, to advancing cancer awareness, early diagnosis, and accessible healthcare services.
The collaboration with MWAN Edo State, under the leadership of Dr Mary Ehimigbai, and OCF Foundation significantly contributed to the success and impact of the programme.
The University of Benin Teaching Hospital remains committed to sustaining cancer awareness campaigns and strengthening preventive healthcare initiatives as part of its mandate to reduce the burden of cancer and improve health outcomes within the community
