Medical professionals across Nigeria have sounded the alarm over a growing cancer crisis, warning that reported cases are expected to rise sharply due to both improved diagnostic systems and increased exposure to lifestyle-related risk factors.

Speaking on Thursday, experts emphasized that Nigeria’s true cancer burden is only now beginning to emerge, as enhanced surveillance tools and greater public awareness bring long-overlooked cases to light.

Cancer Cases Surging — Both in Numbers and Visibility

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the five most prevalent cancers in Nigeria are breast cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

During the commissioning of a newly built Oncology Centre at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Katsina, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, stated that the country records an estimated 127,000 cancer cases annually, resulting in about 80,000 deaths.

“That is the burden,” Prof. Pate noted, stressing the immense toll non-communicable diseases like cancer are taking on Nigerian families—both in terms of suffering and financial strain.

Despite these challenges, the minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening cancer care, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including plans to establish cancer treatment centers in all six geopolitical zones.

Experts: True Burden Just Coming to Light

Experts argue that the increase in reported cases stems not only from better diagnostics but also from unhealthy lifestyle choices, poor health-seeking behavior, and late presentation at health facilities.

Chairman of the Oncology and Cancer Care Committee of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Adamu Umar, explained that past underreporting was largely due to a lack of trained specialists, low awareness, poor diagnostic infrastructure, and cultural stigma.

“The cancer statistics we have today do not fully reflect what is happening on the ground. For every case we diagnose, hundreds likely remain undetected or unreported,” Dr. Umar told reporters.

However, he acknowledged that Nigeria is making strides, citing new diagnostic centers, world-class treatment facilities, and improved hospital coordination. Institutions such as the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) are now driving enhanced surveillance efforts.

“With better tools and data collection, we are finally beginning to understand the true magnitude of cancer in our society,” he said.

Lifestyle Choices Driving Cancer Risk

Beyond improved diagnostics, medical professionals point to rising risk factors contributing to the projected surge in cancer cases. These include:

• Poor diets high in processed foods

• Tobacco and alcohol use

• Physical inactivity

• Delayed hospital visits

• Limited preventive screening

Dr. Umar warned that without sweeping reforms and increased public education, these risks could lead to even higher morbidity and mortality, especially in rural areas where misinformation and superstitions persist.

“Most people don’t go for regular checkups. By the time they show up, the disease is often too advanced,” he said.

He also called on the government to train more cancer specialists, expand access to affordable care, and ensure every Nigerian is covered by the National Health Insurance scheme, including at least one free annual medical screening.

“Cancer is a monster. We need national commitment and community-level action. Early detection saves lives,” he emphasized.

More Reporting Sites, But Risk Still Rising

Also weighing in, Dr. Qudus Lawal, Director of Programmes at the End Cervical Cancer Nigeria Initiative, highlighted that the apparent surge is partly due to better data systems and expanded diagnostic capacity.

“We now have more cancer reporting sites linked to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which means the figures we’re seeing are more accurate—but still not complete,” said Dr. Lawal, who is also a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital.

However, he cautioned that the rise in detection doesn’t mean the disease itself is worsening—but the risk profile of the population is.

“People are smoking more, drinking more, and living increasingly sedentary lives. These habits are raising the chances of developing preventable cancers,” he warned.

From Data to Action

Dr. Lawal stressed the importance of not just collecting data but using it to drive prevention and early intervention.

“It’s not just about counting the cases—we need to act on what we know,” he said. “We must scale up screening, treat pre-cancerous conditions, and intervene early.”

The Way Forward: Awareness, Early Detection, and Reform

In summary, Nigeria’s reported cancer burden is on the rise—not just because the disease is spreading, but because the country is finally developing the capacity to see its full scope. Yet, the battle is far from over.

Without massive public health investment, awareness campaigns, and behavioral change, experts warn the cancer crisis will continue to escalate—claiming thousands of lives unnecessarily.

What’s needed now is a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained national response—one that makes early detection routine, treatment accessible, and prevention a public priority.