On Friday, health researchers, alongside cancer advocates, conducted a cancer awareness campaign in the Piwoyi community located in the Lugbe area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. This initiative was part of the events marking the 2026 World Cancer Day.
The focus of the campaign was on the importance of early cancer detection and correcting prevalent misconceptions about the disease among local residents.
This event was organized by a coalition of oncology researchers under the aegis of the Network for Oncology Research in Africa (NORA), in partnership with the International Research Centre of Excellence at the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN).
Community Engagement
The campaign began with a road walk through the community that concluded at the palace of the Piwoyi community's chief.
Upon reaching the palace, the community’s chief, Tanko Lazarus, welcomed the consortium members and expressed gratitude for their efforts in making cancer education directly accessible to the community.
He acknowledged the significance of such outreach programs in enlightening residents about health challenges and the vital role of early medical intervention.
Subsequently, the campaign moved to Government Secondary School within the community, where the organizers engaged senior secondary school students regarding cancer prevention, prompt detection, and lifestyle choices that promote health.
Survivor's Personal Testimony
During the school visit, Kosi Ugboaja, a breast cancer survivor and program officer at IHVN, shared her insights with the students on the common types of cancers affecting women, particularly breast and cervical cancer.
Ms. Ugboaja highlighted the critical role that early detection plays in enhancing survival rates, emphasizing that many cancer cases can be effectively treated if diagnosed in a timely manner. Drawing from her own experience, she recounted her diagnosis of breast cancer, which occurred without any noticeable symptoms, underscoring the necessity of regular health check-ups.
She pointed out warning signs of breast cancer including lumps, skin alterations, unusual discharges, and other irregularities, while also recommending preventive measures such as a healthy diet, refraining from smoking, and regular screening.
Women as Key Players in Cancer Prevention
Elima Jedy-Agba, the Nigerian Principal Investigator for the Network for Oncology Research in Africa (NORA), explained the campaign's focus on women due to their significant role in making health-related decisions within families.
The outreach aimed to create awareness about prevalent cancers affecting women in Nigeria, notably breast and cervical cancer, while stressing the importance of early detection. Ms. Jedy-Agba communicated that the initiative also aimed to inform women about available screening options and emphasize how timely diagnosis can bolster chances of survival.
She pointed out that a persistent myth within the community is the perception of cancer as an incurable fate. "One of the most common myths in our environment is that cancer is a death sentence, and we are here to clarify that this is not true," she stated.
Ms. Jedy-Agba also highlighted the presence of cancer survivors in the campaign to showcase that effective treatment can lead to a healthy life post- diagnosis, whilst dispelling the notion that cancer is communicable, advocating for community support for patients rather than stigmatization.
Addressing Delayed Diagnosis and Misconceptions
Popoola Benjamin, an oncologist and chairman of the Nigerian Cancer Society's FCT branch, addressed the challenge of late diagnosis in Nigeria, which substantially impacts patients and healthcare services.
According to him, many individuals only seek medical assistance for cancer when the disease has reached an advanced stage, resulting in significant economic and social burdens.
He explained that the campaign aims to dispel the widespread belief that cancer is spiritual or shouldn't be treated within medical facilities. He emphasized that cancer should not be seen as mystical or spiritual and can be prevented or successfully treated when identified early.
World Cancer Day and Global Perspective
World Cancer Day is observed on February 4 every year to raise awareness, enhance public knowledge, and motivate actions against cancer on a global scale. The theme for this year, 'United by Unique,' underscores the diverse experiences with cancer faced by individuals, communities, and nations.
As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), nearly 20 million new cancer cases were reported globally in 2022, with almost half of those diagnosed succumbing to the disease. A recent analysis by WHO and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) revealed that up to 40% of cancer cases worldwide could potentially be prevented through lifestyle alterations and timely medical interventions.
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