In Bayelsa State, a health expert at the Niger Delta University, Dr Okeoghene Ifiezibe Akusu, expressed distress over the growing prevalence of cancer among young adults in Nigeria. He emphasized the significance of early detection in reducing mortality rates, noting that one out of every six individuals succumb to cancer annually due to late detection, amounting to 9.6 million deaths worldwide. This makes cancer the second leading cause of death globally.
Addressing an advocacy and sensitization program to commemorate World Cancer Day 2024, themed “Close the Gap,” Dr. Akusu stressed the importance of regular breast cancer screening. During his presentation on the causes and risk factors of cancer, he explained how abnormal cell division leads to the development of cancer, which disrupts the body’s functionality.
Dr. Akusu highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “Cancer has become an alarming and formidable challenge, with 9.6 million annual fatalities—equivalent to one in every six persons. It is imperative to take proactive measures.”
In their respective contributions, Dr. Kelly Torru and Dr. Daniel Asalagha emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention for any unusual symptoms. They particularly stressed the prevalence of breast cancer in women and encouraged regular self-examination and breastfeeding to lower the risk.
Research has associated cancer with various factors, including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, obesity, exposure to radiation, and unhealthy lifestyles.