Cancer not death sentence – Amosun

Former Ogun State First Lady, Olufunso Amosun, has urged women not to view cancer as a death sentence, emphasizing that early detection and prompt treatment can save lives. She made this call on Wednesday at the launch of the 2026 free breast and cervical cancer screening at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta. Amosun described the annual screening as an opportunity to provide life-saving interventions and ensure timely healthcare access.

Highlighting the rising cancer burden in Nigeria, she pointed out that breast cancer incidence in the country had increased by nearly 300 percent over the past three decades. According to the Global Cancer Observatory 2022, Nigeria recorded 32,278 new breast cancer cases and 16,332 deaths, making it the highest burden on the African continent.

Amosun stressed that early detection is one of the most effective ways to reduce cancer-related deaths. With survival rates exceeding 90 percent for patients diagnosed at an early stage, compared to less than 30 percent for advanced-stage patients, she urged women to take preventive healthcare seriously. Out of the 600 women screened in the 2025 edition, 22 were found to have breast-related concerns, with 11 undergoing free lumpectomy surgeries and post-operative care funded by the foundation in November 2025.

The former First Lady encouraged women to become advocates for cancer awareness, sharing the message of early screening with their families, friends, and communities. She clarified that cancer is a serious health challenge but can be managed with awareness, early detection, and timely treatment. A Medical Consultant and Surgeon, Ebenezer Nkom, emphasized that native remedial measures are ineffective and that early clinical detection prevents mortality.

He also debunked myths, stating that women should not fear losing their breast, as reconstructive surgeries are available.