Dr Garuba Yakubu, a Pathologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi in Nasarawa State, has emphasised the need for regular checkup against cancer to ensure its early detection.
Yakubu told the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Keffi that only an early detection of the disease could ease treatment.
He said: “People need to know the importance of going to the hospital early to ensure early detection and treatment, before cancer gets out of hand.
“People also need to accept that cancer is real and strive to be proactive about the screening and the risk factors that cause it.”
He said that cancer’s growth was autonomous, adding that the disease usually destroy every tissue, infiltrates and feeds absolutely on the host till he or she is dead.
The expert regretted the prevalence of the disease in children, and identified the possible causes to include genetic, environmental, and a combination of both.
He identified the nvironmental factors to include infectious agents, chemical agents, radiation, injury age, predisposition to disease and chronic inflammatory diseases.
According to him, cancer has a long history between the starting point and clinical manifestations, with the cost of treatment getting more prohibitive by the day.
He said: “It shortens life and decreases the quality of life. Cancer deaths are high in communities with poor resources.
“We must strive to promote healthy lifestyles in general, and reduce exposure to hazards; we must also go for screening to ensure early detection and seek quick treatment if found to be positive.”
He advised patients to seek treatment when they notice rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits or shape, and a constant feeling that the bowel is not completely empty.
He added: “We must also seek medical attention whenever we feel a cramping pain in the lower abdomen, decreased appetite or weight loss.”
Trending
- Tinubu appoints renowned banker Jim Ovia as Chair of NELFUND
- Yahaya Bello: EFCC boss Olukoyede to face criminal trial for contempt of court
- President Tinubu appoint CEOs for two agencies
- Breaking: Veteran Yoruba actor, Ogunjimi is dead
- EX-PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS DEMISE OF SIDI ALI, DR. BAFFA YO
- Japa Crises: 58,000 of 130,000 registered doctors renewed licence, says MDCN
- 34-Km Ikorodu-Itokin Road Reconstruction: Gov Sanwo-Olu, Senator Abiru Pay Thank You Visit To Works Minister, Umahi, Make Case For Road Dualisation
- Yahaya Bello: EFCC Chairman’s conduct suggest vendetta, not fight against corruption – Concerned APC chieftains