Health practitioners and cancer survivors have urged Nigerians to prioritise early detection, reject stigma, and support people undergoing cancer treatment.

They stressed that timely diagnosis significantly improves survival outcomes.

The appeal was made during the 2026 Walk Against Cancer at the Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre (MRCC), held to commemorate World Cancer Day, observed globally on February 4.

The awareness walk covered five kilometres from the State House, Marina, to the MRCC facility, with participation from government officials, including representatives of the Lagos State Government, health authorities, and other stakeholders.

Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of MRCC and Specialist Hospital, Prof. Modupe Elebute-Odunsi, said the campaign aligns with global activities during World Cancer Week, which falls under the ongoing three-year theme, “United by Unique,” which runs until 2027.

According to her, the theme highlights the individuality of cancer patients’ experiences while promoting collective global action against the disease.

She noted that cancer is not a death sentence, citing survivors who have returned to normal life after treatment. She emphasised that the key message remains early presentation at health facilities, especially for those aged 40 and above, and urged younger people to seek medical attention if they notice unusual symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent wounds, unusual bleeding, or lumps.

Prof. Elebute-Odunsi disclosed that MRCC has treated nearly 6,000 patients over the last five years and runs a support network, the Marcelle Ruth Friends, which currently has over 400 members, many of whom have successfully resumed normal lives.

She stressed that cancer can affect anyone, including children, adults, men, and women, adding that while some cancers may have genetic or family links, others are influenced by risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain infections, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

She also highlighted ongoing efforts in Nigeria to vaccinate children against HPV to help eliminate cervical cancer.

Addressing stigma, she said cancer patients should not be isolated, noting that lack of social support sometimes leads patients to abandon treatment. She added that increasing age remains the biggest risk factor for cancer globally.

Prof. Elebute-Odunsi also encouraged Nigerians to enrol in health insurance schemes such as Ilera Eko Health Insurance, noting that financial barriers remain a major challenge in accessing cancer treatment.

She further advised Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles, including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, and ensuring vaccination where applicable.

She urged Nigerians to consult qualified medical doctors for proper diagnosis and treatment, noting that while online health information may be helpful, professional medical examination remains essential.

Chairman of MRCC and Specialist Hospital, Bolaji Odunsi, said routine medical examinations should be treated like car servicing, noting that people must service their bodies annually to maintain good health and a healthy lifestyle.

Odunsi also commended the government’s efforts, citing the establishment of new cancer centres and improvements in services over the past two years.

He urged Nigerians to seek medical attention immediately if they notice unusual symptoms.

According to him, early consultation with doctors helps confirm a patient’s health status quickly and improves the chances of effective treatment and recovery nationwide.

Ogun State cultural ambassador and public figure, Farooq Oreagba, popularly known as “Mr Steeze,” also urged Nigerians to prioritise regular health checks, stressing that cancer can be prevented or successfully treated if detected early.

Speaking about his experience, Oreagba revealed he was diagnosed 12 years ago and underwent chemotherapy for eight years. He attributed his survival to early detection despite having no symptoms. He encouraged routine tests such as periodic blood tests and annual scans, while calling on authorities to make cancer screening more affordable. He emphasised public awareness, noting that while Nigeria faces many challenges, health problems should always come first.