SHOCKER: 11 year old girl diagnosed with breast cancer

An 11 year old girl has been diagnosed with cancer in Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The diagnosis was made by an official of a team of medical practitioners from the United States of America sponsored by Anambra Indigenes Association in the US.

The coordinator of the team, John Obegolu, said the girl had been slated for surgery.

Mr. Obegolu said the detection has helped quell the controversy surrounding the girl, whose parents had concluded that she had a spiritual attack.

He said that most of the health issues being experienced by Nigerians could be avoided if they are well-informed.

According to Mr. Obegolu, it has become necessary to teach local women the need for early breast cancer detection and prevention to enhance their healthcare.

He said the association was determined to effect changes in all aspects of healthcare for the people of Anambra State.

Another member of the team, Nkem Aboh, advised women to go for a mammogram test, which is a procedure that uses radiation to diagnose the internal parts of the body.

Mr. Aboh said the amount of radiation was very small compared to the benefits of detecting breast cancer on time.

She said that only between 5 per cent and 10 per cent of breast cancers was caused by genetic disorder.

Ms. Aboh said women of any age could be diagnosed with breast cancer. She however stressed that older women have higher incidences than younger ones.

The medical team have been providing free medical care to the people of the state in various localities since its arrival on August 6.