The Rivers State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing the burden of cancer through strengthened healthcare systems, expanded screening services and improved access to treatment.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, stated this in a broadcast on Tuesday to mark World Cancer Day 2026, observed globally on February 4. This year’s theme, “United by Unique,” underscores the need for collective action while recognising the individual experiences of people affected by cancer.
Dr. Oreh noted that World Cancer Day provides an important platform to raise awareness, promote prevention and renew commitment to combating one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. She stressed that many cancers are preventable and others can be successfully treated when detected early, highlighting the importance of sustained awareness and early diagnosis.
According to her, the Rivers State Government is implementing policies and programmes aligned with Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s #Health4AllRivers strategy to address cancer prevention and care. These efforts include expanding screening and diagnostic services, making treatment more accessible and affordable, training healthcare professionals, and upgrading health facilities to deliver improved cancer care.
The commissioner emphasized prevention as a key pillar in the fight against cancer, urging residents to avoid tobacco use, limit alcohol consumption, maintain healthy diets, engage in regular physical activity and protect themselves against cancer-related infections.
She also highlighted the importance of early detection, noting that cancers such as breast, cervical, prostate and colorectal cancers have better outcomes when diagnosed early. Residents were encouraged to take advantage of available screening services and to overcome fear, stigma and misinformation surrounding the disease.
Dr. Oreh paid tribute to cancer survivors, caregivers and healthcare workers for their resilience, dedication and tireless service, describing their efforts as a source of hope and inspiration across communities. She disclosed that she is herself a cancer survivor.
As the state joins the global community in commemorating World Cancer Day, the commissioner called for unity and collective action to close the cancer care gap and ensure timely, affordable and quality cancer services for all residents of Rivers State.
“Through awareness, compassion and action, we can reduce the burden of cancer and build a healthier future for our state,” she said.
