Written by Doctor Chibugo Adinnu

Main Points:

• Cancer is a complex disease characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can invade and spread to other parts of the body.
• The five major types of cancer are carcinoma, sarcoma, leukaemia, lymphoma, and melanoma, each originating from different types of body tissue.
• Preventative measures such as not smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, and regular physical activity can significantly reduce cancer risk.
• Early detection through screenings and an awareness of one’s body is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.
• Cancer is a major global health issue, placing a significant burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems.

What is Cancer?

Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably. It occurs when cells accumulate genetic and epigenetic changes that disrupt normal cell growth, division, and death.

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These changes let abnormal cells proliferate, evade the immune system, and sometimes invade adjacent tissues and metastasize. Metastasis is responsible for the majority of cancer-related deaths. Understanding how cancer develops helps target prevention, screening and treatment.

As a leading cause of death worldwide, cancer places a tremendous physical, emotional, and financial strain on individuals, families, and communities. Understanding cancer is critical for increasing awareness, promoting early detection, and implementing prevention strategies to reduce its growing global burden.

What are the Types of Cancers

There are more than 200 distinct types of cancer. Clinically, cancers are commonly grouped by cell/tissue of origin. These include:

Carcinoma

This is the most common type of cancer, originating in the epithelial cells that cover the external and internal surfaces of the body. Examples include breast, lung, prostate, and colon cancers.

Sarcoma

These cancers develop in the bones, muscles, cartilage, fat, blood vessels, or other soft or connective tissues. Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and liposarcoma (fat tissue cancer) are examples.

Leukaemia

Often referred to as “blood cancer,” leukaemia begins in the blood-forming tissue of the bone marrow. It leads to the production of a large number of abnormal white blood cells that don’t function properly.

Lymphoma

This type of cancer starts in the immune system’s cells, specifically lymphocytes, and affects the lymphatic system. It is divided into Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Melanoma

A form of skin cancer, melanoma originates in melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment (melanin) that gives skin its colour. It is a highly aggressive form of skin cancer.

Cancer Type	New Cases Annually	Annual Deaths	Percentage of Total Cases
Breast Cancer	32,200	16,300	22.7%
Cervical Cancer	13,676	7,093	12.9%
Prostate Cancer	13,000	5,800	11.3%
Colorectal Cancer	6,700	3,400	5.8%
Liver Cancer	5,200	4,900	4.1%

Stop smoking

The single largest preventable cause of cancer and cancer deaths worldwide. Smoking cessation dramatically lowers lung and other cancer risks.

Vaccination was indicated

HPV vaccine prevents infections that cause cervical and other cancers; Hepatitis B vaccine prevents chronic HBV infection and reduces liver cancer risk. Discuss vaccination with your clinician.

Limit alcohol

Alcohol intake increases risk for several cancers (breast, colorectal, liver, esophageal).

Diet & Weight management

Maintain a healthy weight, emphasise fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and limit processed and high-temperature cooked red meats. Replace some animal proteins with plant-based proteins.

Wear Sun protection

Protect skin to reduce melanoma and other skin cancer risk (sunscreen, shade, protective clothing)

Reduce exposures to carcinogens

Workplace/household hazards (asbestos, certain chemicals) should be minimised.
Know your body & attend recommended screening: Screening finds some cancers early when treatment is more effective. Discuss individual screening schedules with a clinician

Screening For Cancer

Screening recommendations depend on age, sex, risk factors and local guidelines. Examples (general):

Screening Objective	Recommendation	Frequency
Primary Prevention	HPV Vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14	Two doses (or single dose where specified)
Secondary Prevention		Every 5 to 10 years
Alternative Screening	Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA)	Every 3 years in low resource areas
Advanced Screenin	Pap Smear (Cytology)	Every 3 years if HPV testing is unavailable

Discuss eligibility with a clinician

Screening recommendations change as evidence evolves; always confirm with local/national guidance and discuss your personal risk with a clinician.

Lifestyle as Medicine: Primary Prevention Strategies for the High Performing Professional

Medical experts agree that a substantial proportion of cancers could be prevented through lifestyle modifications. For the professionally active Nigerian, the stresses of corporate life often lead to sedentary habits, poor nutrition, and the use of tobacco or alcohol as coping mechanisms. Addressing these modifiable risk factors is the first line of defense in the quest for longevity.

Tobacco use remains the single most preventable cause of cancer worldwide, linked to at least 14 different types of the disease, including lung, mouth, throat, and cervical cancer. In Nigeria, approximately 6.1 percent of cancer cases are traced to smoking. Quitting completely is the best course of action, as there is no safe level of tobacco exposure.

Alcohol consumption is another significant risk factor. It has been linked to cancers of the bowel, breast, and liver. Reducing intake and maintaining a healthy body weight are essential components of a preventive health strategy. Obesity is linked to 13 different types of cancer, primarily because excess body weight leads to chronic inflammation and hormonal changes that encourage abnormal cell division.

Risk Factor	Impact	Mitigation Strategy
Tobacco Use	Linked to 14 cancer types	Complete cessation and avoiding secondhand smoke
Alcohol Intake	Increases risk of liver and breast cancer	Limitation or complete abstinence
Poor Diet	Linked to colorectal and prostate cancer	High fiber, plant based diet with less red meat
Physical Inactivity	Increases risk of breast and colon cancer	150 minutes of moderate exercise per week

Dietary choices are equally important. Professionals should prioritize the consumption of fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains, while limiting red and processed meats. Research suggests that fiber is particularly protective against bowel cancer, while specific nutrients found in tomatoes and other plant foods may offer additional benefits.

“We must invest more in awareness, early screening, and removing stigma,” urges Dr. Shinkafi Bagudu

Men’s Health: Addressing Prostate and Colorectal Cancer Risks

While women’s health often dominates the conversation around cancer, Nigerian men face significant risks that are frequently ignored. Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy among men in the country, and its incidence increases greatly with age. Colorectal cancer is also a growing concern, with experts now recommending that screening for average risk individuals should begin at age 45, earlier than the previous recommendation of 50.

Screening Test	Purpose	Target Age
PSA Blood Test	Detects early signs of prostate cancer	Men aged 45 to 50 and above
Colonoscopy	Examines the colon for precancerous polyps	Both sexes starting at age 45
Stool Based Tests (FIT/sDNA)	Detects hidden blood or DNA changes in stool	Both sexes annually or every 3 years

Source: Early signs of colorectal cancer include blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits, or sudden weight loss. For prostate cancer, regular physical checkups and PSA testing can identify abnormalities before they spread. Men should use an Online doctor in Nigeria to discuss their family history and determine a personalized screening schedule, especially if they have a first degree relative who was diagnosed with cancer

The Role of NICRAT and the Future of Oncology in Nigeria

The establishment of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) in 2023 marked a pivotal shift in the national response to the cancer burden. The institute is tasked with providing leadership in cancer research, prevention, and treatment, and it is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Health to establish comprehensive cancer treatment centers across the six geopolitical zones.

The National Strategic Cancer Control Plan 2023 2027 serves as a roadmap for improving access to diagnosis and care. This plan aims to enhance the oncology workforce, improve infrastructure, and promote research driven interventions that are specific to the Nigerian context. As Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health, noted, this is the beginning of a transformation in cancer care that seeks to provide equitable and quality services for all Nigerians.

Leveraging Online Doctor in Nigeria Services for Early Diagnosis and Second Opinion

The rise of telemedicine has provided a necessary solution for the Nigerian working class who face limited access to quality healthcare due to time constraints and hospital congestion. DoctorOnTap has emerged as a leader in this space, offering a platform where individuals can consult with verified medical specialists from the comfort of their homes or offices. This model is particularly effective for non emergency cases, where a quick consultation can determine whether a symptom requires an urgent physical examination or a specific diagnostic test.

Obtaining a Second Opinion is a standard practice for managing complex health issues such as cancer. For many Nigerians, the ability to have a foreign trained or highly specialized local oncologist review their case provides peace of mind. DoctorOnTap connects patients with a diverse range of specialists, including those in cardiology, neurology, and oncology, facilitating a comprehensive review of medical reports and treatment plans

When to see a Doctor

See a clinician if you have persistent, unexplained symptoms such as: unexplained weight loss, blood in stool or urine, persistent lumps, unusual bleeding, a non-healing sore, a persistent cough, or new unexplained pain. You can consult an Oncologist on DoctorOnTap. Early evaluation improves the chance of detecting treatable conditions. If you’re concerned about screening or family history (e.g., multiple relatives with early cancers), book a clinical consultation.

International Health Tourism: Accessing Global Standards of Care

For complex procedures such as bone marrow transplants, advanced radiotherapy, or specialized cancer surgeries, some Nigerians opt for International Health Tourism. DoctorOnTap facilitates this by connecting patients with JCI accredited hospitals in India, Turkey, the UAE, and Egypt. This service includes a comprehensive care manager who handles hospital bookings, visa support, and travel coordination, ensuring that the patient can focus entirely on their recovery.

Managing medical travel requires careful coordination before, during, and after treatment. By obtaining a Second Opinion from top international specialists via a telemedicine platform, patients can ensure that their chosen treatment path is the most effective option available globally. This holistic approach to health management is essential for the modern professional who demands the highest standards of care.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Closing and Actionable Advice

The battle against cancer in Nigeria is won through information and early action. For the professionally active Nigerian, the convenience of digital health tools means there is no longer a reason to delay vital health checkups. Prioritize your wellness by scheduling a consultation with a specialist today. Whether you need a routine screening discussion or a detailed Second Opinion, the expertise you require is only a click away.

Take the first step toward a healthier future. Book a Consultation, Hire a Caregiver International Medical Tourism

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are the early warning signs of breast cancer I should look out for?
Answer: Common symptoms include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, changes in the size or shape of the breast, nipple discharge other than breast milk, and skin changes such as dimpling or redness. If you notice any of these, consult an Online doctor in Nigeria immediately.

Question: Is the HPV vaccine safe for my teenage daughter?
Answer: Yes, the HPV vaccine is highly safe and effective at preventing the virus types that cause most cervical cancers. The World Health Organization and the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health recommend it for girls between the ages of 9 and 14 as a primary prevention measure.

Question: When should I start screening for colorectal cancer?
Answer: Current medical guidelines now recommend that average risk adults begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 45. If you have a family history of the disease, you may need to start even earlier. Screening can be done through colonoscopy or convenient at home stool tests.

Question: Can I get a Second Opinion through DoctorOnTap for a cancer diagnosis?
Answer: Absolutely. DoctorOnTap connects you with licensed specialists and international experts who can review your diagnosis and treatment plan. This ensures that you have the most accurate information before making a decision on major medical procedures.

Question: Why is early detection so important if cancer treatment is available?
Answer: Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. Cancers caught in the early stages are often treatable with less invasive procedures, whereas late stage diagnoses often have a much poorer prognosis and much higher treatment costs.

References

1. Nigeria Makes Strides in Cancer Control, Views Decentralization of Services to Expand Access – International Atomic Energy Agency, accessed January 31, 2026
2. National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment – National …, accessed January 31, 2026,
3. Knowledge and awareness of breast cancer symptoms, risk factors, and early detection methods among Nigerian university students – ResearchGate, accessed January 31, 2026,
4. Survivors affirm that regular testing for early diagnosis is panacea to curbing cancer., accessed January 31, 2026
5. nigeria – 90% 70% 90% – IARC, accessed January 31, 2026,
6. FEDERAL MINISTRY OF HEALTH, accessed January 31, 2026,