Good health is one of life’s greatest gifts, yet it is often overlooked until challenges arise. At the Funmi Babington-Ashaye Foundation (FBA Foundation), we believe that knowledge is the first step toward living healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. This belief came alive during our recent health and wellness session themed “Your Health, Your Power.”

The session featured an enlightening presentation by Akudo Peggy Abengue, an award-winning media professional, author, and health advocate, who challenged participants to take responsibility for their physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being.

Understanding What Health Truly Means

Health is much more than the absence of illness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.

Throughout the session, participants engaged in thoughtful conversations about how often they pay attention to their health, how they respond to stress, and whether they feel comfortable discussing topics that are often considered taboo.

The message was clear: our health deserves intentional care every day—not only when something goes wrong.

The Four Dimensions of Health

Mrs. Akudo emphasized that true wellness consists of four interconnected dimensions:

• Physical Health – caring for the body through proper nutrition, exercise, adequate sleep, hygiene, and regular medical checkups.
• Mental Health – managing stress, recognizing emotional challenges, and seeking support when needed.
• Social Health – building healthy relationships and maintaining meaningful connections with family, friends, and the community.
• Spiritual Health – finding purpose, hope, inner peace, and values that guide daily living.

When one area suffers, the others are often affected as well.

Breaking the Silence Around Reproductive Health

One of the most impactful parts of the session focused on reproductive health and menstrual wellness.

Participants learned about:

• Understanding a normal menstrual cycle.
• Proper menstrual hygiene.
• Warning signs that require medical attention.
• Conditions such as PCOS and Endometriosis.
• Why severe menstrual pain should never be ignored.

The discussion encouraged young women to speak openly about their reproductive health and seek professional medical advice whenever necessary.

HPV Awareness: Prevention Saves Lives

A major highlight was the discussion on the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Participants learned that:

• HPV causes approximately 99% of cervical cancer cases.
• Cervical cancer is largely preventable through vaccination.
• The HPV vaccine is recommended for individuals between 11 and 26 years.
• Early vaccination and regular screening significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

The session reinforced the importance of prevention over treatment.

Cancer Awareness and Early Detection

Cancer remains a major public health concern, especially in Africa, where mortality rates remain high despite lower incidence compared to some other regions.

Participants were encouraged to:

• Know the warning signs.
• Perform regular self-checks where appropriate.
• Go for recommended screenings.
• Seek medical attention early whenever unusual symptoms appear.

One of the strongest messages shared was simple but powerful:

Early detection saves lives.

Understanding Hepatitis

The presentation also addressed hepatitis, a disease that continues to affect millions globally.

Participants learned about:

• The different forms of hepatitis.
• How hepatitis is transmitted.
• Prevention strategies.
• The importance of testing and knowing one’s vaccination status.

Many people may be living with hepatitis without realizing it, making awareness and testing essential.

Mental Health Matters

Mental health formed a significant part of the discussion.

Participants explored:

• Common signs of depression and anxiety.
• The effects of stress, unemployment, academic pressure, and social media.
• The importance of seeking professional help.
• Supporting friends and loved ones experiencing emotional distress.

A striking statistic shared during the session was that 50% of all mental health conditions begin by age 14, highlighting the need for early awareness and intervention.

The session reminded everyone that asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.

Healthy Habits Build a Healthy Future

Rather than waiting for illness, participants were encouraged to develop simple daily habits that promote long-term wellness:

• Eat nutritious meals.
• Stay physically active.
• Drink enough water.
• Get adequate sleep.
• Schedule regular health checkups.
• Talk openly about health concerns.
• Prioritize emotional well-being.
• Build healthy relationships.

Small, consistent habits today create healthier futures tomorrow.

Reflection Leads to Action

To close the session, participants were encouraged to reflect on four important questions:

• What surprised you the most during today’s session?
• What healthy habit will you start, stop, or improve this week?
• Who will you share this information with?
• What health question have you been afraid to ask a doctor?

These questions served as a reminder that awareness becomes meaningful only when it leads to action.

A Call to Take Charge of Your Health

The “Your Health, Your Power” session was more than a health talk—it was a call to action.

Health is one of our greatest investments. By embracing preventive care, speaking openly about difficult health topics, supporting one another, and making healthier daily choices, we empower ourselves and our communities to thrive.

At the Funmi Babington-Ashaye Foundation, we remain committed to equipping young people with the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to lead healthier lives.

Because when you understand your health, you unlock your power. To learn More https://sspkpresentation.onhercules.app/