August 2024

SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH HUMANITARIAN ACTIONS

The empowerment of women has become a central theme in global humanitarian efforts, with the recognition that gender equality is fundamental to achieving sustainable development. Organizations around the world are implementing diverse programs aimed at enhancing the economic, social, and health outcomes for women, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Women’s empowerment is a critical driver of social and economic progress. Empowering women not only improves their own well-being but also contributes to the health and prosperity of entire communities. According to the World Bank, when women are empowered, they are more likely to invest in their families, leading to better educational outcomes and improved health for future generations.
Economic empowerment is a foundational aspect of many humanitarian efforts aimed at women. Programs that provide skill development, financial resources, and entrepreneurial opportunities help women break the cycle of poverty.

The Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) has been instrumental in addressing the socioeconomic challenges faced by vulnerable communities in Nigeria. Through strategic partnerships and interventions such as the REAP project, the 4GATES project, ACHIEVE project, and the MICSEP project, CFHI, in collaboration with the U.S Embassy, Abuja, Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria. Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN), and Global Philanthropy Alliance (GPA) has made significant strides in transforming lives, especially among vulnerable women, by providing them with the tools and resources necessary to break the cycle of poverty.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

REFERENCES
1. World Bank. (2021). “Empowering Women: Key to Economic Growth and Social Development.” Retrieved from World Bank website.
2. UNESCO. (2020). “Education for Women and Girls.” Retrieved from UNESCO website.
3. Retrieved from https://www.cfhinitiative.org/ongoing-projects/.
4. Retrieved from (CFHI, n.d.)

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON BREAST CANCER OVERVIEW-CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS

Monday Health Burst, WHO, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, with significant impact on health, families, and communities.¹

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can be felt as a lump or detected through imaging. While most breast cancers are invasive, meaning they have spread from the original ducts or lobules into surrounding breast tissue, there are also non-invasive types that remain confined to the ducts or lobules.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. Approximately 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women with these mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer.² Also, prolonged exposure to estrogen and progesterone, whether through early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Additional risk factors are:

Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in women over 50.

Family History: Women with a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has had breast cancer are at higher risk.

Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity are modifiable risk factors that can contribute to breast cancer development.

Radiation Exposure: Women who have been exposed to radiation, particularly to the chest area, have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. However, symptoms can vary widely, and some women may not experience any noticeable symptoms at all. Common signs to watch for include:

Lump in the Breast or Underarm: A persistent lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area is often the first sign of breast cancer. Not all lumps are cancerous, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Changes in Breast Shape or Size: Any unexplained change in the shape, size, or appearance of the breast should be taken seriously.

Nipple Changes: This includes inversion (pulling inward of the nipple), discharge (other than breast milk), or unusual scaling or redness.

Skin Changes: Dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin over the breast, as well as any changes in texture, can be symptoms of breast cancer.

Breast Pain: While breast pain is more commonly associated with benign conditions, persistent or unexplained pain should be investigated.

Awareness of the causes and symptoms of breast cancer is key to early detection and successful treatment. Regular self-examinations, clinical breast exams, and mammograms are essential tools for catching breast cancer early. If you notice any changes in your breast, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider promptly. Understanding your risk factors and leading a healthy lifestyle can also help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

References

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON RAISING EMPOWERED GIRLS: ADDRESSING GENDER BIAS AND VIOLENCE IN YOUTHS

Speak Wednesday, Women / cfhinitiative

Gender bias remains a pervasive issue that manifests in various aspects of a girl’s life, from education and employment opportunities to healthcare and social expectations. These biases often result in unequal treatment, limiting girls’ potential and contributing to systemic disadvantages. According to a 2020 report by UNESCO, over 130 million girls worldwide are out of school due to factors like poverty, cultural norms, and violence.

Gender-based violence (GBV), including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and harmful practices like child marriage, further exacerbates these challenges. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in three women globally has experienced physical or sexual violence, predominantly by an intimate partner. For young girls, the consequences are devastating, affecting their mental and physical health, educational attainment, and future opportunities.

Education is a powerful tool in combating gender bias and violence. Empowering girls with education not only enhance their individual potential but also promotes gender equality in society. Educated girls are more likely to advocate for their rights, delay marriage, and pursue careers, contributing positively to their communities.

Economic empowerment also plays a key role in raising empowered girls. Providing girls with opportunities for vocational training and access to financial resources can help them achieve independence and gain control over their lives. This not only benefits the girls themselves but also contributes to broader social and economic development.

The importance of addressing gender bias and violence against girls cannot be overstated. Empowering girls is not just about ensuring their rights and well-being; it is also about building stronger, more equitable societies. When girls are educated, healthy, and free from violence, they are more likely to contribute to their communities and economies, leading to broader social and economic benefits.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #GirlChildEmpowerment #GirlsEducation #EqualityForAll #GenderEquality #GenderBias

References

1. UNESCO. (2020). Global Education Monitoring Report 2020: Inclusion and Education – All Means All*. Retrieved from [UNESCO](https://en.unesco.org/gem-report/report/2020/inclusion).

2. World Health Organization. (2021). Violence against women prevalence estimates, 2018. Retrieved from [WHO](https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240022256).

3. UNICEF. (2022). Gender Action Plan 2022-2025: Addressing Gender Inequality for Every Child. Retrieved from [UNICEF](https://www.unicef.org/reports/gender-action-plan-2022-2025).

4. Global Fund for Women. (2021). Advancing Gender Justice: The Power of Women-Led Movements. Retrieved from [Global Fund for Women] (https://www.globalfundforwomen.org/).