‘Inherited high penetrant gene mutations increase breast cancer risk’

Breast cancer is not merely a statistic; it represents a critical public health issue that deeply affects individuals, families, and communities. 

In Nigeria, however, the landscape is starkly different. The five-year survival rate is estimated at around 40 per cent, primarily because many women present with advanced disease. 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that Nigeria has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in Africa, underscoring the need for improved awareness, education, and access to screening.

Barriers to care, such as lack of access to healthcare facilities, financial constraints, and insufficient public knowledge about breast cancer, contribute to the low survival rates.

According to the Nigerian Cancer Society, fewer than 10 per cent of women undergo regular screenings, showing a critical gap in preventive care. Stakeholders said the gravity of this disease calls for a multifaceted approach to awareness and education to empower the community with the knowledge and resources needed to combat this devastating disease aside creating a supportive environment for those affected by the disease and promote early detection.

To address this issue, First Health Radio (WASH 94.9 FM) and the Phlox Health Wash Foundation, in partnership with American Hospitals and Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), launched a five-day free cancer screening programme for women in Lagos.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Lagos State Chapter, Dr. Funmi Ige stressed the genetic link to cancer, cautioning that the disease can run in families due to inherited genetic factors. Ige noted that individuals with a family history of cancer are at risk of developing the disease.

According to her, breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally, with approximately 100,000 cases reported annually.
While breast cancer is often associated with women, she explained that men are also susceptible, albeit rarely.

“In my career, I have encountered two cases of breast cancer in men.” She explained further that breast cancer results from abnormal growth in breast tissue, with no single identified cause. 

Ige reassured women that breast cancer is not a death sentence, emphasising that treatments can lead to survival if early detected. To facilitate early detection, she recommended monthly self examinations, ideally two to three days after the menstrual period.

“Breast cancer is no longer limited to women over 35; it is increasingly affecting younger women, so women should self examine themselves regularly,” she warned. 

Earlier in his address, Chairman, Phlox Health WASH Foundation, Dr. Abayomi Osunkoya, represented by Abayomi Alao called for urgent collective action to combat the critical issues.

He said adverse reactions and inactivity of fake drugs have the potential of causing the death of patients, demanding that the menace of proliferation of fake cancer drugs in Nigeria be addressed.

Admitting that the proliferation of fake drugs poses a threat not just to individual patients but to society as a whole, Osunkoya expressed concerns regarding the increasing prevalence of counterfeit cancer drugs in Nigeria. 

“We must address this situation immediately. Those complicit in this crime should recognise that they and their loved ones could also become victims of these fraudulent drugs. Unity is essential in our fight against cancer and disease.

“We shall not relent in the fight against cancer. To defeat cancer is a task for all. Men arise, support breast cancer awareness, and support those receiving treatments.”

Reiterating the foundation’s commitment, he promised to work with communities, WASH 94.9 FM Radio Station, and other partners in the media to establish sustainable water sources for basic needs, optimal sanitation, and develop communication models to reinforce good sanitation practices in our communities to prevent waterborne diseases.

Chairman of WASH 94.9 FM, in her remarks, Prof. Ronke Ogunmakin, said breast cancer remains a significant health challenge for women worldwide, particularly in Nigeria, where it constitutes a large share of cancer cases.  She called for concerted efforts to advocate for improved access to screening and treatment, especially for underserved populations.

“As we gather this week, let us reflect on the urgency of our mission, we must push for policies that improve healthcare access and bolster breast cancer awareness programmes. By collaborating, healthcare professionals, community members, and policymakers can create a lasting impact.

“Breast cancer is not an individual battle; it is a collective journey that requires solidarity, education, and proactive measures. This month, we stand together to amplify our voices and commit to a future where every woman has access to early detection, comprehensive care, and a supportive community.

“In the spirit of resilience and hope, let us honour those who have faced this battle and pledge to empower future generations through awareness and education. Together, we can make a difference.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the event, Toba Akinmoladun, an engineer, urged Nigerians to promote awareness about cancer to combat the high rates of the disease, which are often exacerbated by ignorance.