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Clinical oncologist Dr Omolola Salako has raised concerns over the increasing number of young Nigerians being diagnosed with cancer, noting that specialists are seeing more cases involving people between the ages of 18 and 39.
Salako, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital, spoke during an interview on ARISE NEWS on Sunday, where she discussed cancer risks, prevention and the challenges associated with diagnosing the disease among younger adults.
According to the oncologist, the development is particularly concerning because routine cancer screening is not generally recommended for most people within that age bracket.
She explained that because younger people rarely consider cancer when they experience health problems, some may delay seeking appropriate medical attention until the disease has progressed.
“And for young cancers, that’s another thing we’re seeing in oncology, there are young people between the ages of 18 and 39 that are developing cancers and these cancers are unpredictable, too young to recommend cancer screening in the first place,” Salako said.
She added that younger adults could therefore present at hospitals later because cancer is often considered unlikely at their age.
“And with the younger adults, they tend to present, you know, late because that’s the last thing on a 20-something years old mind,” she said.
Tobacco Use Remains A Major Risk Factor
Salako identified tobacco use as one of the significant risk factors associated with cancer.
She explained that tobacco contains thousands of chemicals that can contribute to the development of cancer and warned that the risks extend beyond people who actively smoke.
“Smoking contains tobacco. And in tobacco, there are more than 3,000 chemicals that are known to trigger cancer or start cancer,” she stated.
The specialist also highlighted the dangers of second-hand smoke, noting that people who regularly stay around smokers can also be exposed to harmful substances.
She urged Nigerians to take cancer prevention seriously and make use of available healthcare services.
Vaccination And Early Detection
According to Salako, cancer prevention involves several measures, including appropriate screening and vaccination.
She noted that some cancers can be prevented through vaccination against infections associated with cancer, including hepatitis B and human papillomavirus.
“And 40% of cancers are preventable. So it’s important women and men are presented at the primary care health care levels to get screened, get vaccinated against hepatitis B virus, human papillomavirus,” she said.
She also encouraged Nigerians to seek medical advice when they notice unusual symptoms rather than dismissing them because of their age.
Family History Can Raise Risk
Salako also drew attention to the role of genetics in cancer risk.
She said individuals with a strong family history of cancer should consider discussing their risk with specialists and undergoing appropriate genetic assessments.
“Another challenge I must highlight are those with a strong family history of cancer,” she said.
According to her, genetic testing and specialist consultations can help identify people who may have an increased risk and allow appropriate monitoring to begin earlier.
She noted that certain tests and interventions can help detect some cancers at very early stages, including before they become fully established.
Lifestyle And Environmental Risks
The oncologist further identified several health and lifestyle factors that could contribute to cancer risk, including kidney disease, uncontrolled hypertension and micronutrient deficiencies.
She also cautioned Nigerians against assuming that electronic cigarettes are completely safe simply because they differ from conventional cigarettes.
Alcohol consumption was another concern she highlighted, particularly excessive and prolonged intake.
She explained that heavy alcohol use can damage the liver and contribute to chronic inflammation, creating conditions that may increase the risk of certain cancers.
Salako also discussed exposure to ultraviolet radiation, particularly among fair-skinned individuals and people living with albinism.
She noted that lower levels of melanin provide less natural protection against UV radiation, potentially increasing the risk of skin damage from prolonged sun exposure.
Cancer And Chronic Inflammation
According to Salako, chronic inflammation is an important pathway through which several cancer risk factors can affect the body.
“At the end of the day, almost everything leads to inflammation,” she said.
She explained that repeated damage to cells can create conditions in which abnormal cells survive and eventually develop into cancer.
“The problem with cancer is, it just takes one arrow in one cell and finds a way to hide. And that’s how cancer can develop,” she added.
Her comments have drawn attention to the need for greater cancer awareness among younger Nigerians, particularly as specialists encounter cases in age groups that may not routinely undergo cancer screening.
While not every cancer can be prevented, Salako’s recommendations emphasise the importance of reducing known risk factors, vaccination, appropriate screening, awareness of family history and seeking medical attention when concerning symptoms occur.
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