Breast cancer is on the rise in Nigeria, with younger women increasingly affected.
Professor Adeniyi Adenipekun, a leading expert in Radiation Oncology at the College of Medicine, raised the alarm in a recent interview with the Nigerian Tribune.
He revealed that breast cancer, once predominantly seen in women in their 60s and above, is now being detected in women as young as their early 30s.
“The prevalence of breast cancer in Nigeria currently ranges between 27 and 33 percent,” he said. “We are also seeing younger women coming down with this disease.”
Experts attribute this disturbing trend to lifestyle changes, environmental pollution, and other factors.
“Lifestyle, Environmental Factors Blamed”
Professor Adenipekun noted that smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet are contributing to the increase.
“Breastfeeding, which is traditionally protective against breast cancer, is not as common among women anymore,” he lamented.
He added that women with a family history of breast cancer face significantly higher risks.
“If a first-degree relative has been diagnosed, the risk almost doubles,” he explained.
However, he emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes.
“Avoid smoking, alcohol, and sedentary habits. Eat more vegetables, fruits, and plant-based foods,” he advised.
“Fear and Cultural Beliefs Delay Treatment”
Late presentation remains a critical issue.
“Seventy percent of Nigerian women present at late stages – stages 3 and 4 – when the disease is harder to treat,” Professor Adenipekun revealed.
He highlighted cultural beliefs as a major obstacle.
“Some think breast cancer is caused by witches and wizards, leading them to seek alternative medicine or prayers,” he said.
He recounted a tragic case of a traditional healer who brought his wife to the hospital at stage four.
“She delayed seeking medical treatment, and we lost her,” he said.
He also blamed fear.
“Many women avoid screenings because they fear the diagnosis,” he added.
“Nigeria Lags in Screening and Treatment”
Nigeria’s facilities for cancer screening and treatment are grossly inadequate, Professor Adenipekun admitted.
“We are far behind,” he said. “Our screening facilities are at a 3 out of 10.”
He stressed the need for cancer screening to start at primary healthcare centers.
“If we train nurses to examine breasts and alert doctors about lumps, we can save lives,” he said.
He also advocated for free screening services to encourage more women to participate.
“Many will not come if they have to pay,” he explained.
“Breast Cancer Treatment Costs Skyrocketing”
The cost of treating breast cancer in Nigeria is also a major challenge.
“For early stages, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy can cost around N2 million,” he said.
He noted that advanced cases sometimes require monthly treatments costing up to N450,000, lasting for a year.
The reliance on imported drugs, coupled with the naira’s devaluation, further escalates costs.
“Treatment is becoming increasingly unaffordable for most Nigerians,” he observed.
“Hope Lies in Early Detection”
Despite the challenges, early detection offers hope.
“Stage one breast cancer is curable with prompt surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy,” Professor Adenipekun said.
He stressed the importance of self-breast examinations and regular screenings.
“Perform a self-exam daily,” he urged women. “Look for changes in breast size, lumps, or nipple discharge.”
He encouraged women over 40 to have annual mammograms and younger women to opt for ultrasound scans.
“Early detection can make the difference between life and death,” he said.
“Call for Action”
Professor Adenipekun called on the government to increase funding for cancer screening and treatment.
He emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns to dispel myths and encourage early diagnosis.
“Medical knowledge is a gift from God,” he said. “Seeking treatment is not a sin.”
