As part of the global campaign against female cancers, the Livestock Development and Exploitation Corporation (SODEPA) gathered its staff around a specialist gynecologist to promote early detection and self-examination.
The Livestock Development and Exploitation Corporation (SODEPA) reaffirms its commitment to the health and well-being of its female employees. On the sidelines of activities marking Pink October, an information, education, and awareness meeting was held at the corporate headquarters in Yaoundé. The event brought together both female and male staff around a leading healthcare professional, a practicing gynecologist based in the capital, who enlightened the audience on the prevention, risk factors, and management of breast cancer and cervical cancer.
During this interactive session, the expert provided valuable scientific insights into the two most lethal tumor pathologies affecting women in Cameroon. Regarding breast cancer, emphasis was placed on regular self-palpation from an early age, as well as the importance of an annual clinical examination and a screening mammogram starting at age 40.
Concerning cervical cancer, the gynecologist reiterated the prominent role of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in the onset of the disease. She stressed the effectiveness of the preventive vaccine for young girls, as well as the indispensable Pap smear (cervical cytology) for detecting and treating precancerous lesions long before the appearance of initial symptoms.
In a sociocultural context where fear of diagnosis and prejudice sometimes delay medical consultation, direct exchanges helped eliminate misconceptions and ease concerns. Participants were strongly encouraged to pay attention to the slightest warning signs—such as the appearance of a lump, abnormal discharge, changes in the skin of the breast, or unusual bleeding—and to consult a qualified health facility without delay.
« Cancer is no longer a fatality when detected at an early stage. Prevention and screening remain our most powerful weapons to save lives, » the speaker reminded the audience during discussions.
Through this civic and solidary initiative, SODEPA demonstrates that corporate social responsibility also involves protecting the health of its human resources. By offering a supportive listening and medical learning environment for its teams, the organization intends to make prevention a daily habit. Because preventing is already taking action, the campaign continues through ongoing awareness within departments and guiding female staff to partner health centers for screening examinations.
