World Cancer Day: NOA urges early action, awareness

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Osun State has called on Nigerians to intensify efforts toward cancer prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care, as the world marked World Cancer Day 2026 on February 4.

The Osun State Director of the agency, Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, made the call in a statement released today to commemorate the annual event, stating that many cancer cases in the country are diagnosed at advanced stages due to low awareness, stigma, myths, and limited access to screening services, factors he said contribute significantly to high cancer-related deaths. He noted that World Cancer Day provides an opportunity to draw attention to the persistent gap in cancer care and the urgent need for early action, emphasizing that early detection significantly improves survival outcome explaining that cancer is not a death sentence when identified early and properly managed, adding that common cancers in Nigeria include breast, cervical, prostate, liver and colorectal cancers, which are more effectively treated when diagnosed early.

The agency also highlighted symptoms that require prompt medical attention, such as unusual lumps, persistent pain, unexplained weight loss, abnormal bleeding, breast changes, prolonged cough, and sores that do not heal. As part of preventive measures, the NOA advised Nigerians to avoid tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, maintain a healthy diet, engage in regular physical activity, and keep a healthy body weight. It also urged citizens to protect themselves from prolonged sun exposure and to take advantage of vaccinations against Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus, describing cancer control as a collective responsibility while calling on individuals, families, and institutions to promote awareness, compassion, and timely action.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale