Miss Ijesa 2025 Unveils Ovarian Cancer Awareness Initiative, Seeks Public Support

A new community-driven health initiative aimed at tackling ovarian cancer awareness has been unveiled by Miss Ijesa 2025, Judith Oyinade Adesoyin, as part of efforts to address the growing concerns around late diagnosis of the disease in Nigeria.

Titled “Breaking the Silence: Together Against Ovarian Cancer,” the programme is designed to educate and empower residents of Ijesaland on the symptoms, risk factors, and importance of early detection of ovarian cancer, often described by health experts as a “silent killer.”

According to the proposal made available to KAKAKIOODUA, ovarian cancer remains one of the least discussed yet most dangerous health challenges affecting women globally. Statistics indicate that over 324,000 new cases are recorded annually worldwide, with more than 200,000 deaths. In Nigeria, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages due to low awareness and delayed medical consultation.

The initiative seeks to bridge this knowledge gap through community engagement, targeting about 150 participants, including women, youths, students, families, and community leaders.

Speaking on the need for the campaign, Adesoyin noted that cultural silence around reproductive health issues continues to hinder early diagnosis and treatment. She emphasized that the project will promote open conversations about women’s health while connecting the public with healthcare professionals.

The event will feature expert-led sessions, panel discussions, interactive question-and-answer segments, and the distribution of educational materials. Organisers say the programme is expected to improve awareness levels in the short term, while encouraging better health-seeking behaviour and reducing stigma in the long run.

Scheduled to hold on May 30, 2026, at the Methodist Church Otapete Hall, the awareness campaign is projected to cost about ₦800,000, covering logistics, publicity, materials, and other operational needs.

The organisers have called on corporate organisations, non-governmental organisations, healthcare professionals, and media partners to support the initiative through sponsorship, technical expertise, and awareness promotion.

They noted that partners and sponsors will benefit from brand visibility, public recognition, and the opportunity to contribute to a life-saving community health intervention.

Adesoyin also extended an invitation to professionals in gynecology, oncology, and public health to participate as speakers and panelists, stressing that collective action is key to breaking the silence surrounding ovarian cancer in Ijesaland and beyond.