The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to report cancer signs and symptoms early to health facilities.
The NOA’s Director in Jigawa State, Malam Ahmad Ibrahim, made the call in a statement issued in Dutse on Wednesday, to commemorate the 2025 World Cancer Day.
Ibrahim said the agency has joined the global community to mark World Cancer Day, observed annually on Feb. 4, to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection and equitable access to care.
He said that cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with many cases detected late due to low awareness, stigma and limited screening.
“Nigerians should understand that cancer is not a death sentence if detected early.
“Many cancers are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices. Late presentation remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nigeria: and access to information, screening, and treatment saves lives.
Ibrahim listed breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer and colorectal cancer as the common cancers in Nigeria.
“Some of the cancer warning signs that should not be ignored are unusual lumps or swellings, persistent pain and unexplained weight loss.
“Others are abnormal bleeding or discharge, changes in breast shape, size or skin, persistent cough or hoarseness and non-healing sores,” he said.
The director, who said that early reporting to a health facility can save one’s life, advised people to avoid tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption.
He also advised people to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy body weight, avoid harmful sun exposure and get vaccinated against Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
“So, NOA urges Nigerians to take advantage of routine cancer screening especially, breast self-examination and mammography, cervical cancer screening (Pap smear/HPV test), prostate screening for men above 40, and regular medical check-ups,” he said.
Ibrahim dismissed the myth that cancer is caused by witchcraft, and is contagious, adding that traditional remedies alone cannot cure cancer, while early medical care improves survival outcomes.
“In line with the NOA’s 7 for 7 Agenda and the CLHEEAN Framework, the agency calls on communities to promote healthy living, religious and traditional leaders to support awareness efforts.
“We also call on families to encourage screening and reduce stigma, and media practitioners to sustain accurate cancer reporting.
“Cancer care is a shared responsibility.
“Closing the care gap begins with awareness, compassion and timely action. Protect your health. Get screened. Speak up. Support one another. Healthy citizens build a strong nation,” the director said.
