LAGOS, NIGERIA — An oncologist has warned Nigerians against keeping silent about persistent symptoms that could indicate cancer.
The warning comes amid renewed calls for earlier cancer detection and treatment across the country. Medical experts say late presentation remains a major challenge in Nigeria.
Experts have repeatedly stressed that cancer is not necessarily a death sentence when detected and treated early. However, fear, stigma, misinformation and limited access to care often delay diagnosis.
The oncologist urged Nigerians to take unusual changes in their bodies seriously. People should seek medical attention instead of waiting for symptoms to become severe.
Warning signs can vary depending on the type of cancer. They may include unexplained weight loss, unusual bleeding, persistent cough and changes in bowel or bladder habits.
Other signs include unexplained lumps, sores that do not heal and difficulty swallowing. The World Health Organisation has advised people to pay attention to such changes and seek appropriate medical evaluation.
The National Cancer Control Programme also warns that persistent symptoms should not be ignored. It stresses that early investigation can improve the chances of detecting cancer at a more treatable stage.
The oncologist also encouraged Nigerians to embrace cancer screening. Screening can detect some cancers before symptoms appear.
This is important because some cancers may not produce obvious symptoms during their early stages. The National Cancer Control Programme says screening can help identify cancer when it is smaller and more treatable.
Cancer screening, however, is not the same for everyone. The appropriate test depends on factors such as age, sex and individual risk.
Nigeria’s national cancer screening guidelines cover several major cancers. These include breast, cervical, colorectal and prostate cancers.
The call for regular screening comes as Nigeria continues to face a significant cancer burden. Health authorities have identified late diagnosis as a major contributor to poor outcomes.
In February, the Federal Government launched a nationwide free cancer screening programme. The initiative was aimed at improving early detection and reducing cancer-related deaths.
Experts say public awareness must also improve. Nigerians need accurate information about cancer symptoms, screening and available treatment options.
They also warn against relying solely on traditional remedies or self-medication when concerning symptoms appear. Such delays can allow some cancers to progress before proper treatment begins.
Fear remains another barrier to early diagnosis. Some people avoid hospitals because they are afraid of receiving a cancer diagnosis.
Others may fear the financial cost of treatment. Experts have noted that expensive treatment and out-of-pocket healthcare costs can contribute to delayed care in Nigeria.
Medical professionals are therefore encouraging Nigerians to change the way they respond to suspicious symptoms. Rather than keeping quiet, they should speak with qualified health workers.
A symptom does not automatically mean that a person has cancer. Many cancer warning signs can also result from less serious conditions.
However, health professionals say persistent or unexplained changes should be investigated. Early medical assessment can help identify the actual cause.
The National Cancer Control Programme advises people not to ignore warning signs or delay seeking care. Its guidance stresses that early diagnosis can save lives.
The oncologist’s message is therefore focused on awareness and action. Nigerians are encouraged to know their bodies and respond promptly to unusual changes.
Regular screening should also become part of preventive healthcare for people who meet the recommended criteria. Early detection gives patients a better opportunity to receive timely treatment.
For health experts, silence remains one of the dangers surrounding cancer. Breaking that silence could encourage more Nigerians to seek help before the disease advances.
The message is simple: do not ignore persistent symptoms. Speak up, get checked and follow appropriate screening recommendations.
Early action could make a critical difference in the fight against cancer in Nigeria.
