Dr Temitope Olatunji, an oncologist, has advised Nigerians to raise the alarm over any strange symptoms in their bodies to reduce sudden deaths from cancer.
Olatunji, a Radiation and Clinical Consultant at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), made the call in an interview with reporters in Ota, Ogun State, on Monday.
She reiterated the need for people to embrace a culture of yearly screening to avoid falling prey to diseases that could lead to untimely death.
“Many people don’t take their health seriously, and they don’t raise early alarm when they discover strange symptoms or experience unusual things in their body systems.
“With yearly screening and check-ups, the hospital will be able to discover illnesses early and proffer early solutions. This will prevent unnecessary loss of life,” she said.
The oncologist identified poverty as a major factor preventing people from undertaking regular health checks and treatments.
Olatunji urged various levels of government to embark on more public advocacy, mass education and awareness campaigns on cancer, early detection and treatment options.
“Nigerians must know that cancer exists; they must know that keeping quiet is dangerous, so early alarm is critical to treatment and survival,” she said.
She commended the Federal Government for introducing a health insurance programme, saying it will limit out-of-pocket expenses for people.
“We need to go further by deepening the awareness level. This will enable members of the public to know that such a programme exists,” she said.
Olatunji stated that early detection and early treatment are key to saving lives and curbing cancer cases in the country.
