World Cancer Day: NOA urges early action awareness
Osun Director Calls for Enhanced Cancer Awareness and Prevention
OSOGBO, Nigeria — Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, the State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Osun State, has urged residents to intensify efforts in cancer prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care. His remarks were made in a statement released Wednesday as part of the observance of World Cancer Day, celebrated annually on February 4.
In the statement, Public Relations Officer Bunmi Olaseinde conveyed Adebiyi’s concerns regarding the cancer crisis in Nigeria, noting that many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages due to low public awareness, stigma, widespread myths, and restricted access to screening services. He emphasized that these factors contribute significantly to the high mortality rate associated with cancer in the country.
Adebiyi highlighted the global observance as a vital opportunity to address the existing gaps in cancer care and to emphasize the need for early intervention. He explained that cancer remains a pressing public health issue in Nigeria, where individuals often seek medical attention only when the disease has progressed significantly.
“Early detection can improve survival outcomes,” Adebiyi stated, asserting that timely identification and management of cancer can transform it from a death sentence into a manageable condition. He noted that prevalent cancers in Nigeria include breast, cervical, prostate, liver, and colorectal cancers, which have better treatment outcomes if diagnosed early.
The agency also outlined symptoms that necessitate immediate medical attention, such as unusual lumps, persistent pain, unexplained weight loss, abnormal bleeding, changes in breast appearance, prolonged cough, and non-healing sores.
To aid in prevention, the NOA recommends that Nigerians refrain from tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity, and achieve appropriate body weight. Additionally, Adebiyi advised residents to limit sun exposure and ensure vaccinations against Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus, which are associated with some forms of cancer.
Adebiyi called cancer control “a collective task,” suggesting that awareness, compassion, and timely action from individuals, families, and institutions are essential in closing the care gap.
The NOA encourages Osun residents and Nigerians at large to prioritize routine screening, seek credible health information, and foster open discussions about cancer within their communities. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to public enlightenment, emphasizing that informed and healthy citizens are crucial to national development.
