Stakeholders have raised alarm over the increasing number of breast cancer deaths in Nigeria, attributing the trend to late detection and poor health-seeking behaviour among citizens.
They stressed that early diagnosis remains the most effective way to save lives and urged Nigerians to embrace regular screening and self-examination practices.
The warning was issued during the Lagos Pink Alliance Mega Outreach, organised by the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS), Lagos State Chapter, in Lagos. The event, themed “Strength in Unity,” featured free breast and cervical cancer screenings, awareness walks, and the distribution of educational materials, as stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained advocacy and affordable cancer care.
Speaking at the event, Lagos State First Lady, Dr Claudiana Sanwo-Olu, called for collective action in the fight against breast cancer, stressing that unity and compassion are critical to tackling the disease.
“No single individual, group, or institution can win the war against cancer alone. It is through collaboration, awareness, and compassion that we can truly make a difference,” she said.
Sanwo-Olu expressed concern that many women lose their lives because cancer is often detected at an advanced stage. She underscored the importance of regular screening and health education as crucial tools for prevention and survival.
According to her, the Lagos State government continues to expand access to quality healthcare through the ILERA EKO Health Insurance Scheme, community medical outreaches, and strengthened primary healthcare centres.
“Our approach has always been anchored on education, empowerment, and empathy because knowledge saves lives and support gives hope,” she added.
The First Lady also commended breast cancer survivors for their courage, encouraging both women and men to adopt healthy lifestyles, participate in regular screenings, and seek prompt medical care at the first sign of abnormalities.
In his remarks, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, urged Nigerians to perform monthly self-breast examinations, emphasising that early detection is key to improving survival rates.
“If cancer is detected early, we have enough scientific methods to manage it effectively. Unfortunately, many Nigerians present at stage four, when all we can offer is palliative care,” he lamented.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Lagos Chapter, and founder of the Atinuke Cancer Foundation, Princess Tinu Lawal, explained that the Lagos Pink Alliance was established to unify advocacy efforts across the state.
“The Lagos Pink Alliance brings everyone together — One Lagos, One Voice, One Fight Against Cancer. Early detection saved my life. I’ve been cancer-free for over 11 years, and that’s why we must keep pushing for regular health checks,” she said.
Lawal urged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for their health by visiting recognised cancer centres and participating in regular screenings. She stressed that cancer affects everyone, regardless of gender, class, or status.
Also, Coordinator of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), Western Naval Command, Mrs Josephine Oamen, noted that breast cancer is increasingly being diagnosed in men and emphasised that awareness, early testing, and prompt treatment remain the strongest weapons against the disease.
“There’s just a thin line between being told you have cancer, and you don’t. A small lump could be stage one breast cancer, don’t take it for granted,” she warned.
