An Ibadan-based Surgeon, Prof. Temidayo Ogundiran, has cautioned Nigeria against intake of tobacco and alcoholic drinks to reduce the prevalence of cancer in the country.
Ogundiran, a consultant at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, gave the advice during a personality lecture for resident doctors on Wednesday in Ibadan.
The lecture, organized by the Association of Resident Doctors in UCH, has the theme: ”The Role of Entertainment Industry in Healthcare Delivery with Terminal Illnesses As a Reference Point”
The consultant said that alcohol had series of negative effects on genes and the immune system.
He said it was expedient for Nigerians to regularly undergo genetic assessment and counseling.
” There is need to control infections as much as possible, those whose families have history of cancer should regularly undergo screening.
”Cancer is not always a terminal disease, some are completely curable, others are managed for a long time.
”So, early detection, presentation and management increases the cure process of any cancer,” he said.
Ogundiran said that 30 per cent of cancers are caused by infections, saying careful and informed lifestyle is important.
In a keynote address, Wife of former Governor of Oyo State, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, urged Nigerians to ensure healthy lifestyles to promote good health
”It is our duty to take good care of our lives, ensure proper health checks and good sanitary habits,” she said.
Ajimobi urged the entertainment industry to promote effective health awareness campaign in the interest of public health.
Also speaking, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, called for policy measures to upgrade the nation’s health sector.
He said it was worrisome that Nigerians still travel abroad in search of good medicare.
Dr. Zakariya Hussain, President, Association of Resident Doctors, UCH chapter, expressed the association’s commitment towards promoting medical research and training.(NAN)
