Lagos: A Consultant Oncologist, Dr. Ajibike Orekoya, has advised Nigerians to adopt a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of having cancer. Orekoya, the Head of the Oncology Unit at the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute Metta, emphasized this advice during a programme organized by the hospital to commemorate the 2025 World Cancer Day.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, World Cancer Day is observed every February 4 globally to raise awareness about the disease. The theme for 2025 is ‘United by Unique’. Dr. Orekoya highlighted that breast and prostate cancers are the most common among women and men in Nigeria, respectively, underlining the importance of regular checkups for early detection.
The oncologist pointed out that women who started menstruating earlier or have a family history of cancer are at a higher risk. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and the leading cause of cancer deaths among women in low and middle-income countries. Dr. Orekoya noted that while breast cancer does not have a known cause, several factors may increase the risk.
Orekoya also called on the Federal Government to increase the number of cancer centers in the country to enhance patient access to treatment. “The government, on its part, is trying but there’s still more that can be done. The government has subsidized the treatment for cancer patients, and we all know that cancer treatment is quite expensive. Patients who are under health insurance have part of their treatment covered,” she explained.
Additionally, there is a program in place where drugs that cancer patients receive are provided at a subsidized rate. Dr. Orekoya expressed hope that the Federal Government’s initiative to build a comprehensive cancer center would allow patients access to regenerative treatment at possibly subsidized rates.