Medical experts in Nigeria have emphasized the critical role of lifestyle modification and improved diet intake in addressing prostate cancer and menopause-related issues among men and women. The call was made by three senior medical consultants from the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) and Ilọrin General Hospital, Dr Lola Owolabi, Oseni Ismaila, and Aremu Isiak, during a press event in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Prostate cancer, which has become the leading cause of cancer deaths among Nigerian men, is a growing concern. According to experts from Project PINK BLUE, a cancer-fighting non-governmental organization, the number of new cases and deaths attributed to prostate cancer has been on the rise. Quoting the World Health Organization’s Globacan Report, in 2020, new cases of prostate cancer increased to 15,306, while deaths rose to 8,517. Notably, the disease is taking a toll on Nigerian men in their prime, emphasized by Prof Pat Utomi, a prostate cancer survivor and former presidential candidate.
Dr Ismaila Oseni, a Consultant Urologist, stressed the importance of prostate health, highlighting that a healthy prostate is normal as long as it is not castrated. However, he cautioned about the dangers associated with neglecting its management and control, linking the disease’s prevalence and severity to irregular and unchecked diets. This aligns with the experts’ recommendation for lifestyle modification and enhanced diet intake as pivotal strategies in addressing prostate cancer and menopause-related challenges.
In response to the pressing need for awareness and intervention, a prostate cancer webinar was organized by Project PINK BLUE in collaboration with Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity for Black Men Consortium and JNC International to coincide with International Men’s Day. This initiative aims to provide vital information and support for the prevention and management of prostate cancer.
As the prevalence of prostate cancer continues to rise, it is evident that concerted efforts are necessary to tackle this public health concern effectively. By advocating lifestyle modifications and improved dietary habits, medical professionals and organizations are taking proactive steps towards mitigating the impact of prostate cancer and menopause on Nigerian men and women.
