The Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, has urged women to take a leading role in combating tuberculosis and other public health challenges by prioritizing early detection and timely reporting of symptoms.
He made this appeal during a pep talk at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Women Affairs in Calabar.
Speaking to participants, Dr. Ayuk emphasized the need for increased vigilance at home and within communities, encouraging women to promptly report suspected tuberculosis cases to the nearest health facility.
He noted that symptoms such as persistent coughing or sneezing lasting more than two weeks should not be ignored, stressing that early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the disease from becoming fatal.
“Tuberclosis remains a major public health concern. If left untreated, it can be deadly. However, it is treatable when detected early, and no one should lose their life to a disease that can be effectively managed,” he said.
The Commissioner also highlighted the close link between tuberculosis and HIV, revealing that many HIV-related deaths are often caused by complications arising from tuberculosis.
He encouraged women to take proactive steps in protecting the health of their families, describing them as primary caregivers and first responders in most households.
According to him, women should feel empowered to report health concerns without seeking permission, especially when they notice unusual symptoms in their spouses, children, or neighbours.
Dr. Ayuk further stressed the critical role women play in achieving global health goals, particularly the elimination of communicable diseases by 2030.
“If the role of women in healthcare is overlooked, achieving the 2030 disease elimination target may remain out of reach. Women are vital to prevention, early detection, and care,” he added.
He also commended the Wife of the Governor and Governor Bassey Otu for their dedication to improving the state’s health sector, noting that notable progress has been recorded since 2023.
Dr. Ayuk concluded by urging women to remain health-conscious and continue supporting government initiatives aimed at improving public health and saving lives.
