In a significant push toward early cancer detection and prevention, the David Omenukor Foundation has provided free colorectal cancer screenings to over 1,000 individuals during a large-scale intervention marking the 2026 Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
The awareness campaign, themed “Blue Hat & Bow Tie,” was held at Golden Vista Hotel, drawing participants from across the state for comprehensive screening exercises, health education sessions, and expert-led workshops aimed at combating late-stage cancer diagnoses.
The First Lady of Imo State, Her Excellency Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, who was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr Chioma Vivian Egu, lauded the Foundation’s proactive intervention. Speaking on her behalf, Dr. Egu emphasized 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.
She further reiterated the First Lady’s commitment to cancer advocacy through initiatives such as the Good Hope Women Flourish Initiative and First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), calling for sustained awareness efforts to break the silence and stigma surrounding colorectal cancer.
In an exclusive interview, Dr Christopher Ekwunife , a consultant at the Federal University Teaching Hospital Owerri, highlighted the growing concern of early-onset colorectal cancer in developing countries. According to him, 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.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Founder and CEO of the Foundation, Dr Keyna Omenukor, stressed the urgent need for individuals to take proactive steps toward their health by embracing regular screenings and open conversations about colorectal cancer.
Also lending support, the Commissioner for Tertiary and Technical Education, Prof. Victor Nwachukwu, pledged to disseminate key health information from the workshop across tertiary institutions, targeting young people as critical stakeholders in public health awareness.
The intervention, organized in collaboration with the Nigerian Cancer Society and the Global Colon Cancer Association, featured expert contributions from Dr Ijeoma Dozie and Prof. Rev. Sr. Evangeline Oparaocha, alongside the Imo State Chairman of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Dr Okechukwu Duru, who underscored the value of grassroots engagement in combating cancer.
The programme also included on-site registration for additional screenings, supported by Lifeway Diagnostic Centre and All Med Diagnostic Centre. Medical Volunteers, led by Dr. Rita Ukeredi, were commended for their dedication and professionalism throughout the exercise.
Stakeholders concluded with a strong call to action, urging collective efforts to prioritize early detection, expand awareness, and safeguard the health of Nigerians.
As the “Blue Hat & Bow Tie” campaign continues to gain momentum, it stands as a beacon of hope—driving lifesaving conversations, encouraging preventive healthcare, and reinforcing the message that early screening remains the most powerful tool in the fight against colorectal cancer.
