A Clinical and Radiation Oncologist has urged Nigerians not to ignore persistent or unusual changes in their bodies, identifying abnormal bleeding, unexplained weight loss and new or growing swellings as some warning signs that require medical investigation.

Speaking during a session of the Naija Cancer Watch Fellowship, organised by Sebeccly Cancer Care, Dr. Omolola Salako said cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the disease, stressing the importance of recognising unusual changes and seeking appropriate medical assessment.

According to her, breast cancer may present as a painless lump in the breast, although some lumps can be painful. Other warning signs include lumps around the armpit or collarbone, changes in the appearance or symmetry of the breast, redness or deep dimpling of the skin and changes to the nipple.

World Health Organisation advises people with an abnormal breast lump to seek medical care even when the lump does not cause pain.

For prostate cancer, Dr. Salako identified significant changes in urination, including increased frequency, repeatedly waking at night to urinate, difficulty holding urine and blood in the urine. She added that severe bone pain could occur where the disease has spread to the skeletal system.

She however cautioned that such symptoms do not automatically indicate prostate cancer, as other medical conditions may cause similar changes, making proper medical assessment important.

On cervical cancer, the oncologist identified abnormal vaginal bleeding as a major warning sign, particularly bleeding after sexual intercourse, between menstrual periods or after menopause.

Beyond recognising warning signs, Dr. Salako stressed the need for Nigerians to understand the factors that can increase the chances of developing cancer.

According to the World Health Organisation, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and air pollution are among the risk factors for cancer and other noncommunicable diseases.

Infections also play an important role, particularly in low and middle income countries. WHO estimates that about 10% of cancers diagnosed globally in 2022 were linked to cancer causing infections, including Human Papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C viruses, Helicobacter pylori and Epstein-Barr virus.

Some of these infections are associated with specific cancers. Hepatitis B and C can increase the risk of liver cancer, while certain types of HPV increase the risk of cervical cancer. Women living with HIV are also six times more likely to develop cervical cancer than women without HIV, according to WHO.

Despite the burden, a significant proportion of cancers can be prevented. WHO estimates that about 38% of cancers can currently be prevented by avoiding known risk factors and implementing existing evidence based prevention strategies.

Prevention, however, does not eliminate every cancer risk, making early detection equally important.

Dr. Salako noted that not all cancers produce obvious symptoms in their early stages. While cancers such as breast cancer may produce noticeable changes, she explained that some kidney and liver cancers can develop quietly and may only become apparent after the disease has spread to other parts of the body.

WHO says the cancer burden can be reduced through early detection and appropriate treatment and care, noting that many cancers have a high chance of cure when diagnosed early and treated appropriately.

Health experts advise that while the presence of a lump, abnormal bleeding, unexplained weight loss or other unusual symptoms does not automatically mean cancer, persistent or unexplained changes should be investigated by a healthcare professional. (AriseNews TV)

Update news