More than 22,000 women have benefited from breast cancer screening supported by Polaris Bank through its longstanding partnership with Care Organisation Public Enlightenment (C.O.P.E), as the bank renews efforts to promote early detection and support cancer patients.
The bank disclosed this during its partnership with WinCancer Foundation for the foundation’s inaugural WinCancer Games, held at Whitesands School playground in Lagos as part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Rasheed Bolarinwa, Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communications at Polaris Bank, said the bank’s cancer advocacy initiatives had extended beyond public awareness to screening, treatment assistance and support for survivors.
He said the bank had donated three breast cancer screening machines, including a mobile unit, sponsored treatment for more than 30 indigent cancer patients and supported survivors through its collaboration with C.O.P.E.
In 2026, the bank also supported initiatives targeting free breast cancer screening for 100 women and prostate cancer screening for 250 men aged 40 and above.
Bolarinwa said the bank remained committed to partnerships that improve access to healthcare and address the financial, emotional and psychological challenges faced by people affected by cancer.
He commended WinCancer Foundation for promoting early detection and providing practical support to patients and their families, noting that effective cancer advocacy required collaboration among businesses, healthcare professionals, government institutions and communities.
Founded by two-time breast cancer survivor Olabisi Oladiran, WinCancer Foundation provides cancer education, food assistance, care packages containing essential medical supplies and referrals to partner hospitals for testing and further assessment.
The foundation has expanded its advocacy beyond breast cancer to include ovarian, colon, blood and childhood cancers.
Speaking at the event, the foundation’s trustee, Oluwatumininu Adesioye, said the initiative’s theme, “Awareness to Action,” was intended to encourage people to seek medical advice, pay attention to changes in their bodies and support those undergoing treatment.
She said proceeds from ticket sales, donations and vendor participation at the games would help sustain the foundation’s patient support programmes.
The event combined sporting activities, community engagement and fundraising, with four participating houses representing blood cancers, colon cancer, ovarian cancer and childhood cancer.
Participants were also encouraged to seek prompt medical attention when they noticed unusual changes and consult qualified healthcare professionals about screening appropriate to their age, medical history and individual risk factors.
Polaris Bank said it would continue to support initiatives focused on cancer awareness, early detection and assistance for vulnerable patients.