World Cancer Day, commemorated February 4 yearly, serves as a worldwide campaign to enhance understanding of all types of this life-threatening illness.
According to Project Pink Blue, cancer claims over 72,000 lives annually in Nigeria, with 30,924 deaths among men and 40,647 among women. This figure is projected to rise as the country records approximately 102,000 new cancer cases each year.
Breast cancer has the highest incidence rate at 27%, followed by cervical cancer (14%), liver cancer (12%), prostate cancer (12%), and colorectal cancer (4.1%). In terms of mortality, breast cancer accounts for 20% of cancer-related deaths, while liver cancer contributes 16%, prostate cancer 13%, cervical cancer 12%, and colorectal cancer 4.4%. Breast cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths in Nigeria, followed by liver cancer and prostate cancer.
This year’s theme, “United by Unique”, emphasises the distinct journeys of individuals battling cancer. Advocates are calling for medical institutions globally to focus on personalized patient care rather than solely treating the disease.
To mark this significant occasion, the Princess of Wales shared a personal photograph taken by her six-year-old youngest son, Prince Louis. The image is captured outdoors in a wintery landscape and reflects her deep appreciation for photography, a passion she is evidently passing down to her children. The portrait, taken recently in Windsor, portrays Catherine warmly dressed with her arms extended.
Accompanying the image, she conveyed an important message: “Don’t forget to nurture all that which lies beyond the disease.” Kensington Palace noted that this picture underscores the healing role of nature in her recovery following her announcement in January that she was in remission from cancer.
With early detection playing a crucial role in survival rates, recognizing warning signs is imperative. Here are some common symptoms to be aware of:
1. Persistent Cough, Chest Pain, or Breathlessness
If you have had a cough lasting more than three weeks, or experience unexplained chest discomfort or breathing difficulties, seeking medical advice is advisable.
2. Changes in Bowel Habits
Be alert to alterations such as abdominal discomfort, blood in your stool, diarrhoea or constipation without an apparent cause, a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, pain in the stomach or rectum, stools that appear unusually pale, loose, or greasy, if any of these persist for three weeks or longer, consult your healthcare provider.
3. Persistent Bloating
Ongoing bloating lasting over three weeks warrants a medical evaluation.
4. Unexplained Bleeding
Unexpected bleeding should be assessed immediately. This includes: blood in urine, vaginal bleeding between menstrual cycles, rectal bleeding, blood present in coughing or vomiting.
5. Unusual Lumps
A doctor should examine any newly discovered lumps or those that have increased in size. Regular self-examinations of areas such as the breasts, underarms, groin, and testicles can aid in early identification.
6. Changes in Moles
Watch out for variations in shape or asymmetry, shifts in colour, particularly if darker or multi-toned, itching, crusting, flaking, or bleeding, and noticeable increase in size or elevation.
If any of these changes occur, seek medical attention promptly.
7. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing a significant amount of weight without modifications in diet or activity level should be discussed with a physician.
8. Persistent Abdominal or Back Pain
Chronic or intermittent pain in the abdomen or back, without an identifiable cause, necessitates medical evaluation.
9. Indigestion and Heartburn
Frequent acid reflux or heartburn with no obvious trigger should be checked by a healthcare professional.
10. Skin Abnormalities
Persistent itching or yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) could indicate underlying conditions that require medical assessment.
11. Persistent Fatigue or Malaise
Feeling constantly drained or unwell without a clear reason should prompt a consultation with a doctor.
In conclusion, note that early diagnosis greatly improves treatment success rates, making vigilance about one’s health essential. Observing these symptoms and seeking medical advice at the first sign of concern could make a significant difference in one’s prognosis.
(THE STANDARD)
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