Lagos, July 1, 2024: Leading oncologists have emphasized that early detection and regular screening are crucial in preventing cancer-related deaths. They pointed out that many cancer patients in Nigeria succumb to the disease due to late presentation.
Key Insights:
- Early Detection and Screening: Dr. Adeoluwa Adeniji, Medical Director of Me Cure Cancer Centre, highlighted that cancer is no longer a death sentence if detected early. He urged individuals to undergo regular health checks and screening programs to catch the disease in its early stages.
- Late Presentation: A major issue in Nigeria is that many patients seek medical help only when cancer has significantly progressed, reducing the effectiveness of treatment. Dr. Adeniji noted that even the best medical centers may struggle to cure cancer at advanced stages.
- Affordable Screening: Dr. Adeniji emphasized that cancer screening is affordable and crucial. He advised women to conduct monthly breast self-examinations post-menstruation.
- Cancer Statistics: Nigeria records over 140,000 new cancer cases annually, which Dr. Adeniji described as alarming. He also lamented the shortage of oncologists and cancer treatment centers in the country compared to developed nations.
Specialist Advice:
- Educational Outreach: Oncologists advocate for increased awareness about cancer symptoms and the importance of early detection. Dr. Habeebu Muhammad, Chief Clinical Director at the NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre, stressed that early detection saves lives and reduces the financial burden of cancer treatment.
- Common Cancers: The most prevalent cancers in Nigeria include breast cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, and colon cancer. Dr. Muhammad emphasized that recognizing early symptoms, such as unusual bleeding or unexplained weight loss, and seeking prompt medical attention is critical.
Call to Action: Both experts underscored the need for regular cancer screenings and early medical consultations to improve survival rates. They dispelled the misconception that a cancer diagnosis is a death sentence, highlighting the potential for successful treatment when the disease is caught early.
This concerted effort by oncologists aims to educate the public on the importance of early cancer detection and to improve the overall health outcomes for cancer patients in Nigeria.