Cancer No Longer an ‘Old People’s Disease’ as Young Nigerians Face Rising Cases — Oncologist

A clinical oncologist, Dr Omolola Salako, has raised concern over the increasing number of young Nigerians being diagnosed with cancer, saying specialists are seeing “unpredictable” cases among people between the ages of 18 and 39. Salako, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital, disclosed this during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Sunday. According to the oncologist, the development is particularly concerning because many young adults fall outside the age brackets routinely targeted for cancer screening. She explained that because cancer is often not considered a likely diagnosis among people in their 20s and 30s, affected individuals may delay seeking medical attention until the disease has advanced. Salako said the situation highlights the need for greater public awareness and a stronger focus on cancer prevention and early detection across all age groups. She identified tobacco use as one of the major risk factors for cancer, noting that tobacco contains more than 3,000 chemicals capable of triggering cancer. The specialist also warned that the risk was not limited to active smokers, as people regularly exposed to tobacco smoke could also be affected. According to her, cancer control should begin with prevention, including the use of primary healthcare services for appropriate vaccinations and screening. She specifically encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of vaccination against hepatitis B virus and human papillomavirus, both of which are associated with certain cancers. Salako also identified family history as an important factor that should not be ignored. She advised people from families with a strong history of cancer to consult specialists and consider appropriate genetic testing. She said such assessments could help identify individuals at increased risk and allow some cancers to be detected at very early stages, including before they become fully developed. Beyond genetics, the oncologist mentioned other health and lifestyle-related factors, including kidney disease, uncontrolled hypertension, micronutrient deficiencies, heavy alcohol consumption and prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation. She also stressed that chronic inflammation and repeated damage to the body’s cells could contribute to the development of cancer. While prevention remains important, Salako said early detection was equally critical because some cancers can be successfully treated when diagnosed at an early stage. She urged Nigerians not to dismiss persistent or unusual symptoms because of their age and advised people to seek medical attention when health problems do not resolve. The oncologist also called for greater awareness of cancer screening and routine medical checks, noting that the appropriate screening depends on age, sex and individual risk factors. Salako’s warning comes amid broader concerns about cancer care in Nigeria, where high treatment costs also remain a major challenge. She said some patients who initially present early eventually abandon treatment because they cannot afford the cost of care. She therefore urged Nigerians to prioritise prevention, regular medical checks and early consultation, stressing that early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful cancer treatment.