Rising Cancer Cases Among Young Nigerians Concern Experts

Dr. Omolola Salako, the Chief Executive Officer of Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital, raised alarms about the increasing incidence of cancer among Nigerians aged 18 to 39 during an interview on ARISE NEWS. She noted that these young patients often present with unpredictable forms of cancer, which complicates early detection since they fall below the recommended age for routine cancer screening.

Salako explained that many young adults delay seeking medical attention until the disease has progressed, as cancer is often not a primary concern for them. She identified tobacco use as a significant risk factor, stating that it contains over 3,000 chemicals known to trigger cancer.

Salako urged Nigerians to prioritize cancer prevention through healthcare services, vaccinations against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus, and appropriate screenings. She also emphasized the importance of consulting specialists for individuals with a strong family history of cancer, advocating for genetic testing to facilitate early detection.