On the 16th of February, 2024, the EMAC Cervical Cancer Foundation hosted Its annual “Smearit” event at the Omidigbo Primary Health Care Center in Palm Avenue, Mushin, Lagos State. The event, in partnership with Maycentral Health Care, sought to raise awareness about cervical cancer and provide free screenings to women in the community.
Almost 100 women took advantage of this free screening, which was conducted throughout the day, starting at 10 am. The event kicked off with an educative opening speech by Dr. Tewa Onasanya, the founder of Exquisite Magazine Cancer Care Foundation, who addressed the community women in their local dialect, Yoruba. Mrs Maureen, the founder of Maycentral Health Care, also shared her insights and support for the cause.
The screening yielded mostly negative results, indicating good cervical health among the participants. Interviews were conducted to gather responses from those who completed their screenings, highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention.
“We are thrilled with the outcome of the Smearathon,” said Dr. Tewa Onasanya. “By providing free screenings and raising awareness, we hope to empower women to take charge of their health and prevent cervical cancer.”
The event was not only informative but also enjoyable, with refreshments served to the attendees, bottled water sponsored by Nirvana and small chops from Saheeto chops. The positive impact of the Smearathon was felt throughout the community, as it brought attention to the importance of regular screenings and early detection to prevent cervical cancer.
Before the 16th of February, for the whole month of January which is cervical cancer awareness month through to February, the EMAC Foundation embarked on a cervical cancer prevention week to sensitise the public about its prevention via screening and vaccination. The SMEARIT challenge saw women and men joining the campaign to tell every awesome lady about cervical cancer prevention.
For more information about the Exquisite Magazine Cervical Cancer Foundation, can be found on www.smearitafrica.com
