Dr. Anthony Ajiboye, General Surgeon at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), has advised women to conduct regular self-breast examinations as part of early cancer detection and prevention efforts.
Ajiboye gave the advice in Ilorin while delivering a lecture titled “Preventive Strategies for Cancer” during activities marking the 2025 Cancer Awareness Month.
He emphasised that early detection through routine self-examination and medical screening remains one of the most effective and affordable ways to reduce cancer-related deaths.
According to him, self-breast examination involves visually checking the breasts in front of a mirror for changes in size, shape, or skin texture, and gently feeling for lumps or abnormalities with the fingertips.
“Screening is a preventive strategy that is both effective and cost-efficient. People must be aware of cancer risk factors and take proactive steps to prevent them,” he said.
Ajiboye cautioned against the use of tobacco, noting that smoking has been linked to several types of cancer.
He also encouraged the public to adopt a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which can help lower cancer risks, and to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation, pollution, and ultraviolet light — particularly among people living with albinism.
“Avoid radiation exposure, pollution, ultraviolet light, and excessive sunlight, especially for individuals with albinism,” he advised.
The surgeon urged mothers to ensure that their daughters receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Hepatitis B vaccines, explaining that the HPV vaccine — which is free — protects against infections that can cause cervical and other cancers.
Ajiboye also appealed to governments at all levels to regularly organise mass screening and vaccination exercises, promote safe blood transfusion practices, and sustain public sensitisation campaigns through media jingles and community outreach.
