Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to community health and social impact with the launch of a nationwide free breast cancer screening initiative in partnership with its NGO partner, Care Organisation and Public Enlightenment as part of the commemoration of World Cancer Day.

Speaking on the initiative, Group Head, Brand Management & Corporate Communications, Polaris Bank, Rasheed Bolarinwa, emphasised that early detection remains one of the most effective tools in the fight against cancer.

“By removing financial barriers and bringing screening services closer to communities, the Bank aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources they need to seek timely medical intervention,” Bolarinwa said.

The initiative is designed to promote awareness, screening, early detection, and preventive care, reinforcing the bank’s belief that access to health services is a critical foundation for individual and economic well-being.

As part of this year’s World Cancer Day activities, Polaris Bank provided free and comprehensive breast cancer screening for 100 women across Nigeria, while also supporting an ongoing free prostate cancer screening programme for 250 men aged 40 years and above, which it had earlier sponsored.

The prostate cancer screening is being conducted at the Men’s Clinic, situated at 18, Commercial Avenue, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, providing accessible, professional medical support for male participants seeking early detection and preventive care.

According to the bank, both initiatives directly align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through improved access to preventive healthcare and early detection services, SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by prioritizing women’s health and empowerment, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration with civil society organizations such as C.O.P.E to deliver community-centered impact.

Educational materials, community engagement sessions, and digital awareness campaigns will also be deployed to reinforce key messages around early detection, lifestyle choices, and the importance of regular medical check-ups.