By Cecilia Ogezi
A Northern Nigerian woman, Fatima Sanda Usara, has launched a new book titled 'Nadama', a cancer prevention research work aimed at reducing the prevalence of cervical cancer in Nigeria especially in northern Nigeria where the scourge is high.
Speaking at the event which held in Abuja and attended by Nigerians from all walks of life, Usara, explained that the inspiration came from (Dr) Marlilyya Zayyan of blessed memory, due to the prevalence of cervical cancer. She said it was the late Zayyan who help her to research widely into the causes and prevention of cervical cancer, adding that it is the reason she dedicated the book to her.
According to author, 'Nadama', which means avoiding regret in this case and not taking necessary measures against cancer is a 145 pages book, since 2008, late Dr Marliyya Zayyan sold the idea to me to create awareness against cervical cancer, VVF that will reach the rural populace.
"The prevalence is high. It is preventable yet many are unaware of this. She gave me books which I read and returned to her for further clarifications as a medical doctor. I took a trip to Shika, Zaria, to visit patients suffering from the disease in order to visualize the situation; it was heartbreaking. That was when I started the work; and finished it. I concluded but the Almighty knows best. She did not live long enough to witness its publication. As I was financially constrained. I kept the script in my drawer until recently".
She said, it is hoped the research would educate, enlighten readers about cervical cancer causes, symptoms, vaccine, treatment, community networking in supporting one another.
Usara stated that the drama is intended to create awareness and motivate women to go for screening because cervical cancer is preventable. To educate the reader on the risks in order to avoid it.
"I gave the book to a 45 year old civil servant who after reading the book confessed to me that she had never know pap smear could detect the HBV virus which leads to cervical cancer. She also opened up to me to say that she doesn't know there are vaccines that prevent cervical cancer.
"She also said she was not aware that having multiple partners could increase the risk of cervical cancer. She told me she would go for a pap smear and proceed to take the vaccine, hearing it made me fulfilled and it's my wish that it gets to many women" she said.
Usara who holds a first degree and Masters degree in English Literature and Language, pointed out that if more women would be a little informed about this disease from a non professional like her, and also be motivated to go and meet the professionals for professional advice, her aim of writing the book would be achieved.
On further plans to create awareness, the author noted that the book will be translation into English and as proposed by former Chief of Army Staff, Gen Tukur Buratai, who also attended the book launch, she will also be translating it to Nigerian languages: Igbo and Yoruba. She added that she will be creating an audio book in Hausa for those who cannot read or are lazy to read. In addition, she said she will produce a Hausa film in order to reach more people. NNL.
