Introduction: Why World Cancer Day Matters
Every year on February 4, the world unites to raise awareness about cancer, its prevention, detection, and treatment. World Cancer Day 2025 is no exception, with the theme “United by Unique”, emphasizing that every individual’s experience with cancer is unique, yet we are all part of the same global fight.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but early detection, lifestyle changes, and advancements in treatment have significantly improved survival rates. At MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we are committed to ensuring that cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection become more accessible to everyone.
This article aims to educate and empower you with the knowledge to protect yourself and your loved ones from cancer.
What is Cancer?
Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. These cells invade healthy tissues, disrupting normal bodily functions.
Cancer can develop anywhere in the body, and there are over 100 different types of cancer. The good news? Many cancers can be prevented, detected early, and treated successfully.
Types of Cancer
Here are some of the most common types of cancer worldwide, including in Nigeria:
1. Breast Cancer
- The most common cancer in women.
- Symptoms: Lump in the breast, change in breast size or shape, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling.
- Risk Factors: Family history, obesity, alcohol consumption, and late childbirth.
- Prevention & Detection: Regular self-breast exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms.
2. Cervical Cancer
- Affects the cervix, mostly in women between 30-50 years.
- Main Cause: Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection.
- Symptoms: Vaginal bleeding between periods, pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse.
- Prevention: HPV vaccination (for young girls and women), regular Pap smears, and safe sexual practices.
3. Prostate Cancer
- The most common cancer in men.
- Symptoms: Difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and blood in urine.
- Risk Factors: Family history, age (risk increases after 50), and diet high in red meat.
- Prevention & Detection: Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, maintaining a healthy diet, and regular check-ups.
4. Lung Cancer
- Leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
- Main Causes: Smoking, secondhand smoke exposure, and air pollution.
- Symptoms: Chronic cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
- Prevention: Avoid smoking, reduce exposure to pollutants, and have regular lung screenings.
5. Colorectal Cancer
- Affects the colon or rectum.
- Symptoms: Blood in stool, constipation or diarrhoea, and unexplained weight loss.
- Risk Factors: Diet high in processed foods, obesity, and family history.
- Prevention & Detection: Colonoscopy screening after 45, a fibre-rich diet, and regular exercise.
6. Liver Cancer
- Common in Africa, linked to Hepatitis B and C infections.
- Symptoms: Jaundice (yellowing of the skin), abdominal pain, and nausea.
- Prevention: Hepatitis B vaccination, avoiding excessive alcohol, and maintaining a healthy diet.
7. Leukaemia (Blood Cancer)
- Affects blood and bone marrow.
- Symptoms: Frequent infections, easy bruising, and extreme fatigue.
- Prevention: Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation.
Cancer Prevention: How to Reduce Your Risk
While some cancer risks are genetic, many cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:
1. Healthy Eating Habits
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Reduce processed and red meat consumption.
- Increase antioxidants (found in nuts, green tea, and berries) to protect cells from damage.
2. Regular Exercise
- At least 30 minutes of exercise daily lowers cancer risk.
- Helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
3. Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol
- Smoking is linked to lung, throat, and bladder cancers.
- Alcohol increases the risk of liver, breast, and mouth cancers.
4. Protect Yourself from Infections
- Get vaccinated against Hepatitis B and HPV, which can cause liver and cervical cancer.
- Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers.
5. Limit Sun Exposure
- Skin cancer is caused by harmful UV rays.
- Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid direct sun exposure between 10 am – 4 pm.
Early Detection: Why Regular Screening is Important
Cancer detected early is easier to treat and has higher survival rates.
At MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we offer the following cancer screening tests:
- Mammograms – For breast cancer.
- Pap Smears & HPV Tests – For cervical cancer.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Tests – For prostate cancer.
- Lung CT Scans – For lung cancer detection.
- Colonoscopy – For colorectal cancer detection.
Don’t wait for symptoms! Schedule your screening today.
Cancer Treatment: What Are Your Options?
Cancer treatment depends on type, stage, and overall health. Here are the common treatments:
1. Surgery
- Removes cancerous tumours.
2. Chemotherapy
- Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Can be used before or after surgery.
3. Radiation Therapy
- Uses high-energy rays to shrink tumours.
4. Immunotherapy
- Boosts the immune system to fight cancer naturally.
5. Hormone Therapy
- Stops or slows cancer growth in hormone-sensitive cancers like breast and prostate cancer.
Early detection improves treatment success rates, so don’t delay your screenings.
Cancer in Nigeria: What You Should Know
- Cancer cases in Nigeria are rising due to poor awareness and late diagnosis.
- Limited access to cancer screening leads to delayed treatment.
- MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics is committed to making early detection easier and more accessible.
Get screened today! Prevention and early detection save lives.
How MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics Can Help You
At MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we offer: ✅ Comprehensive cancer screenings ✅ Accurate laboratory tests ✅ Ultrasound, X-ray, and imaging services ✅ Early diagnosis for better treatment planning ✅ Affordable and quality healthcare services
📍 Visit Us:
- Headquarters: 96, Ibrahim Taiwo Road, Opposite MRS Filling Station, Taiwo Isale, Ilorin, Kwara State.
- Branch: 4A, Ven Adefila Street (Old Cemetery Street), Lajorin, Sabo Oke Area, Ilorin, Kwara State.
📞 Call Us: 08185112170 | 09051103808
