Oncologist Dr Temitope Olatunji has urged Nigerians not to ignore unusual changes in their bodies, warning that keeping silent about strange symptoms could delay the detection and treatment of cancer.
Olatunji, a Radiation and Clinical Consultant at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ota, Ogun State, on Monday.
The oncologist stressed the importance of paying attention to persistent or unusual symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly rather than waiting for them to become severe.
She also encouraged Nigerians to develop the habit of undergoing regular health checks and appropriate cancer screenings, noting that early detection can improve treatment outcomes for many types of cancer.
According to her, many people tend to overlook changes in their bodies or delay visiting a hospital when they notice something unusual.
“Many people don’t take their health seriously, and they don’t raise an early alarm when they discover strange symptoms or experience unusual things in their body systems,” she said.
Olatunji advised people to consult qualified healthcare professionals whenever they notice persistent or unexplained symptoms instead of relying on self-medication or ignoring the warning signs.
She noted that cancer can affect different parts of the body and may present with symptoms that could easily be mistaken for less serious conditions.
The specialist therefore called for greater public awareness about cancer prevention, screening and early diagnosis, urging Nigerians to take their health seriously.
She emphasised that seeking medical attention early could help doctors identify potentially serious conditions and begin appropriate treatment without unnecessary delay.
Health experts generally recommend that cancer screening should be based on factors such as age, sex, family history and individual risk, rather than assuming that every person needs the same tests every year.
ALSO READ:Tinubu Has a Message for Nigerian Health Workers Overseas
Hope you find the Above publication useful, Calabargist will love to keep you updated via our newsletter by subscribing with your email.
