Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Lift Above Poverty Organisation (LAPO) has revealed that it screened no fewer than 240 residents of Edo State for various cancers between January and April 2025.
The Executive Vice President, Health and Social Development at LAPO, Honestus Ayo Obadiora, disclosed this in a statement to journalists in Benin City on Monday.
“We screened 120 people for breast cancer, 80 for cervical cancer, and 40 for prostate cancer under our Community Campaign for Cancer Control (LAPO-C4) initiative,” Obadiora said.
He added that over 4,285 persons were sensitised during the period, as part of efforts to promote early detection and reduce cancer deaths.
Obadiora explained that the LAPO-C4 programme prioritises rural and semi-urban communities, with activities held in markets, community meetings, and local associations to ensure inclusiveness.
“Our focus is on early detection and public sensitisation to curb the alarming rise in cancer cases,” he stated. He highlighted that Nigeria records about 102,000 new cancer cases each year, with 60% affecting women through breast and cervical cancers.
According to him, “Early detection can prevent over 80% of cancer cases, while lifestyle adjustments such as healthier diets, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol can reduce cancer occurrence by up to 40%.”
The LAPO executive stressed the urgent need for community-led interventions and greater stakeholder collaboration in tackling cancer in Nigeria.
“LAPO continues to advocate for increased government investment, public-private partnerships, and collective action to expand cancer education, enhance screening access, and reduce cancer-related mortality,” Obadiora said.
He pointed to challenges such as limited awareness, cultural misconceptions, and poor access to diagnostic services as major barriers to cancer control.
Citing World Health Organisation (WHO) data, he warned that cancer cases are expected to rise sharply, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where healthcare systems are weak.
