Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mariam Ileyemi
Published on 2024-02-22 16:08:00
The Support Association for Fibroids Awareness (SAFA) is preparing to launch as a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about uterine fibroids and offering support to those affected in Nigeria and across Africa.
In a statement released by SAFA’s manager, Wemimo Adewuni, the organization is on the brink of being established with a primary focus on empowering individuals with knowledge about managing and treating uterine fibroids. This includes the use of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology. The official launch is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 24 April, in Surulere, Lagos.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths within the uterus that often manifest during childbearing years. The symptoms of uterine fibroids include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive issues.
As part of its launch, SAFA has teamed up with the Fibroid Care Centre to organize a one-day free consultation for women living with fibroids. The event will also include a raffle draw, with one participant having the opportunity to win a “FREE HIFU” treatment.
Lack of awareness
According to SAFA, there is a lack of awareness about the condition and its treatment options despite the high prevalence of uterine fibroids. The organization’s mission is to bridge this gap by providing education and support to individuals affected by uterine fibroids. SAFA offers resources and information on the signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids, available treatment options, and the importance of early detection. Additionally, SAFA provides a platform for individuals to share their experiences and connect with others who are facing similar challenges.
Statistics and prevalence
In Nigeria, data from a 2023 study revealed that the incidence of fibroids was 51.9 percent between the ages of 26-35 years and 44.6 percent between 36-45 years. Furthermore, several studies have determined that the national prevalence of fibroids amongst Nigerian women is 12.1 percent. The total cost of diagnosis, drugs, and surgery for uterine fibroids is estimated to be about N850,000 in Lagos as of 2023.
To further drive awareness and support, SAFA is set to host a launch event with its key initiatives, aiming to equip individuals with knowledge about uterine fibroids and inform them about available treatment options. This comes in response to the identified lack of awareness and understanding of the condition and its impact on many individuals.
As the organization prepares to establish itself, the upcoming launch event is poised to be a significant step towards achieving its goal of raising awareness about uterine fibroids and providing crucial support to those affected. With the collaboration between SAFA and the Fibroid Care Centre, there is an opportunity to address the prevalent lack of information and resources for individuals living with fibroids.
Overall, the establishment of SAFA is expected to be an important milestone in the effort to enhance understanding and support for individuals affected by uterine fibroids in Nigeria and across Africa. Through its initiatives and programs, the organization aims to provide vital resources, education, and a support network for those impacted by this common medical condition.
Read the original article on Premium Times
