By Ojoma Akor
Project Pink Blue , a leading cancer nonprofit in Nigeria has inaugurated a multidisciplinary steering committee to lead the Women
Empowering Women Breast Cancer Navigation & Technology Programme
(WEW-BCNaP).
This Programme is being implemented by Project PINK BLUE with support from AstraZeneca.
A statement from the organization said the innovative programme aims to transform breast cancer care in Nigeria by
combining technology and patient navigation to improve access to early diagnosis,
treatment, and comprehensive support.
WEW-BCNaP leverages patient navigation and technology to empower breast cancer
patients and retired nurses navigating Nigeria’s complex healthcare system.
The programme aims to create a stronger culture of survivorship and
prevention by promoting early detection, reducing emotional distress, and improving treatment outcomes.
The steering committee members include: Dr. Tracy A. Battaglia (Co-chair) – Associate Cancer Center Director,
Cancer Care Equity, Yale Cancer Center ; Miss Olushola Akapo (Co-chair) – Breast Cancer Survivor; Coordinator, Lagos Cancer Support Group, Lagos, Nigeria; Runcie C.W. Chidebe (Co-chair) – Executive Director, Project PINK BLUE- Health and Psychological Trust Center;
Dr. Usman Malami Aliyu – Director General, National Institute of Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT).
Others are Monica Dean – Director, Patient Navigation Program Development, Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators (AONN+), USA, Prof. Ifeoma Okoye – Founder, Breast Without Spot (BWS); Professor of
Radiation Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka &
University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu, Nigeria, and Dr. Uche Nwokwu – National Coordinator, National Cancer Control Programme, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, among others.
Project PINK BLUE is a cancer organization engaged in cancer awareness, patient
navigation, advocacy, cancer research, and psychological support.
