A consultant oncologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Dr Temitope Olatunji, has urged Nigerians to seek medical attention immediately after noticing unusual symptoms, stressing that early detection is critical to reducing cancer-related deaths.

Olatunji, a radiation and clinical oncology consultant, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ota, Ogun State, on Monday.

She encouraged Nigerians to adopt annual medical screenings and routine health check-ups, saying many illnesses, including cancer, can be detected and treated more effectively when identified early.

“Many people do not take their health seriously, and they fail to raise an alarm when they notice strange symptoms or unusual changes in their bodies,” she said.

“With yearly screening and check-ups, hospitals can detect illnesses early and provide timely treatment, preventing unnecessary loss of lives.”

The oncologist identified poverty as a major reason many Nigerians delay health screenings and treatment, making diseases more difficult to manage.

She called on federal and state governments to intensify public awareness campaigns on cancer prevention, early diagnosis and available treatment options.

“Nigerians must know that cancer exists, and they must understand that keeping quiet about symptoms is dangerous. Early reporting is essential for treatment and survival,” she said.

Olatunji also commended the Federal Government’s health insurance programme, saying it could reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses, but noted that more awareness was needed to ensure people take advantage of it.

She emphasised that early diagnosis and prompt treatment remain the most effective ways to improve cancer survival rates and reduce preventable deaths in Nigeria.