A Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Dr Temitope Olatunji has emphasised the importance of raising public awareness and ensuring early detection in the fight against cancer.
In an interview on Monday in Ota, Ogun, Olatunji discussed how most cancer cases are not the result of misconceptions but rather factors such as genetics and lifestyle.
Olatunji acknowledged the positive impact of public enlightenment campaigns by the Federal and State governments, noting that these efforts have led to more patients seeking cancer treatment.
However, she stressed the need for more aggressive public education through radio, television, and social media to ensure people are fully informed about the causes of cancer.
“The key to survival in cancer, especially breast cancer, is early detection and appropriate treatment,” she said.
She urged the public to undergo regular checkups, as many breast cancer patients are diagnosed too late for effective treatment.
While commending the federal government for its awareness initiatives, Olatunji emphasised the need for additional sensitisation programmes to further reduce cancer cases in the country.
She also called for improved infrastructure to better support cancer treatment,
NAN
