Dr. Samuel Otene, Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist, has advised Nigerian women to adopt healthy lifestyle modifications, practice regular self-examination, and seek early medical intervention to effectively tackle breast cancer.
Dr. Otene gave the advice on Thursday in Lagos during a two-day workshop organised by the Health Writers Association of Nigeria (HEWAN) for journalists, commemorating the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The training, held in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) and supported by Roche Nigeria, aimed to enhance media coverage and public awareness of breast cancer.
Dr. Otene, who practices at Benue State University, highlighted the low survival rate of breast cancer in Nigeria. He attributed this to late detection, inadequate access to screening and medical care, and other contributing factors.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer globally and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women.
“Preventive measures and early detection are key in the fight against breast cancer,” Dr. Otene said.
“However, in this part of the world, most women do not perform self-examinations and often visit hospitals only when the disease has advanced. Women should always be vigilant for symptoms such as new lumps, changes in breast skin, swelling of the whole breast or nipple, and other noticeable changes, and seek prompt medical attention.”
He explained that both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors contribute to breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial in prevention.
“Breast cancer can originate from any cell in the breast. Risk factors include gender, age, family history, obesity, alcohol consumption, high-fat diets, among others,” he said.
Dr. Otene advised women over 40 years of age to undergo regular mammograms for early detection.
He also urged journalists to intensify public awareness efforts, particularly in communities where stigma and myths about breast cancer persist.
