The National Orientation Agency, NOA, Benue State Directorate, has joined the global community to mark World Cancer Day, observed annually on 4th February, as a platform to raise public awareness on cancer prevention, early detection, and the urgent need to close the care gap in access to screening and treatment services.
NOA highlights cause of deaths on World Cancer Day
The Agency emphasises that cancer is not a death sentence when detected early, as many cancers were preventable through healthy lifestyle choices, regular screening, and timely medical intervention.
Early detection and prompt treatment significantly increase survival rates and reduce complications.
She stressed that the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nigeria was late presentation, and this can be addressed through improved awareness and responsible health-seeking behaviour.
Healthy lifestyle key to cancer prevention
As part of preventive measures, NOA encourages citizens to avoid tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engage in regular physical activity, maintain healthy body weight, protect themselves from harmful sun exposure, and take advantage of vaccination against Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus, HPV, which are known risk factors for certain cancers.
Reject myths, embrace screening
The agency further urges Nigerians, especially residents of Benue State, to take advantage of routine cancer screening services, including breast self-examination and mammography, cervical cancer screening through Pap smear and HPV testing, prostate screening for men above 40 years, and regular medical check-ups.
Screening remains one of the most effective tools for early detection and improved treatment outcomes.
NOA also called on communities to reject misinformation and harmful myths surrounding cancer as it was caused by witchcraft, and scientific evidence confirms that early medical care and adherence to professional treatment significantly improve survival outcomes.
