A health expert at the Niger Delta University, NDU, Bayelsa State, Dr Okeoghene Ifiezibe Akusu, has lamented the increasing rate of cancer among young adults in the country, saying early detection is key to overcoming the mortality rate.
He said one out of every six persons die of cancer yearly due to late detection, putting the figure at 9.6 million people annually, making it the second leading cause of death in the world.
Speaking during an advocacy and sensitization programme to mark the 2024 World Cancer Day with the theme: Close the Gap, Akusu added that regular breast cancer screening is important.
In his presentation on the causes of cancer and the risk factors involved, Dr Akusu explained that “Cancer is a group of diseases caused by abnormal cell division. The body is made up of the cells, which are functional units of the body. When the cells begin to multiply in abnormal ways and are sent to different tissues and organs in the body, it causes problems which are called cancer.”
He continued, “When they grow uncontrollably, it causes problems and makes the body system non-functional. 9.6 million people die of cancer yearly, which is one in six persons yearly. Cancer has been said to be the second leading cause of death in the world. It’s quite alarming, and a threatening challenge.
In their separate submissions, Dr Kelly Torru and Dr Daniel Asalagha advised that visiting a doctor when one starts having some unusual symptoms should not be ignored.
They said for women, breast cancer is common, which is the main reason why people are often encouraged to self-breast examine, adding that sucking the breast reduces the chances of breast cancer.
Studies have shown that cancer has been linked to some factors which include the use of tobacco-based products, high risk, consumption of alcohol, overweight and obesity, and those exposed to LP radiations and unhealthy lifestyles.
World Cancer Day: Experts raise alarm over increase in cases among young people
