Delta Air Lines, BRECAN Rally for Year-Round Breast Cancer Advocacy and Early Detection

In a concerted effort to combat late-stage diagnoses and support those affected by breast cancer, Delta Air Lines has partnered with the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) to drive awareness and promote early detection.

The collaboration was highlighted during an event in Lagos on October 31, marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative featured an awareness walk, targeted health education, and an engagement session with survivors to equip participants with crucial information on breast health, warning signs, and the necessity of timely professional screening.

Speaking at the event, Mary Gbobaniyi, Manager, Sales, West Africa at Delta Air Lines, emphasized the airline’s commitment to community welfare.

“Delta believes that connecting people extends beyond transportation; it involves supporting the communities where we operate. Breast cancer impacts individuals, families and communities. Increased awareness and early detection are critical steps toward improving outcomes,” Gbobaniyi said.

She noted that the partnership with BRECAN is designed to empower individuals with life-saving information, encourage prompt medical intervention, and reassure patients that they are not alone.

Founder of BRECAN and a 29-year breast cancer survivor, Dr. Betty Akeredolu, used the platform to call for stronger healthcare systems. She advocated for accessible screening and diagnostic services, affordable treatment, and robust financial and psychosocial support for patients and their families.

Akeredolu expressed concern over the high rate of late-stage presentations, which she attributed to misinformation, delayed diagnoses, and financial difficulties.

“Too many women still present at health facilities when their disease has reached an advanced stage. Too many families continue to experience avoidable suffering because of delayed diagnosis, misinformation, financial difficulties and inadequate access to treatment,” she said.

She urged Nigerians to sustain advocacy beyond October, stressing that the fight against the disease requires continuous commitment.

“As we conclude another Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let us remember that breast cancer does not recognise the boundaries of October. Our advocacy, compassion and commitment must therefore continue throughout the year,” Akeredolu added.

The Nigerian initiative aligns with Delta’s broader, long-standing commitment to breast cancer research. Since 2005, the airline has partnered with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). In October 2026, Delta announced that this partnership had raised $36 million, funding more than 720,000 hours of critical research.

The airline’s global initiatives also include its signature pink-and-white “Breast Cancer One” aircraft, onboard fundraising campaigns, and the SkyWish miles-donation program.

Through its localized partnership with BRECAN, Delta aims to deepen community engagement, challenge misconceptions, and inspire more Nigerians to prioritize their breast health. For survivors and families, the message remains clear: early detection, access to treatment, and sustained community support are life-changing.