As the world commemorates World Cancer Day, Dr. Catherine Nyongesa, a renowned oncologist and the Founder, Managing Director, and CEO of Texas Cancer Center, is calling for heightened awareness of cancer risks and the critical importance of early detection and prevention, particularly in Africa.
Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality on the continent, with approximately 1.1 million new cases and 700,000 deaths reported annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for effective interventions to curb the cancer burden in Africa.
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025-2027, “United by Unique”, set by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), emphasizes a people-centered approach to care. Dr. Nyongesa echoed this sentiment, stressing that understanding individual cancer risks and taking proactive steps for early detection are pivotal to reducing cancer-related deaths.
Know Your Cancer Risks
According to WHO, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, responsible for nearly 9.7 million deaths each year. Dr. Nyongesa highlighted both modifiable and non-modifiable cancer risk factors. Modifiable factors, such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and air pollution, can significantly increase the risk of developing cancer. Non-modifiable factors like age, genetics, and immune system vulnerabilities also contribute to a person’s likelihood of developing cancer.
The Power of Regular Screenings
Dr. Nyongesa stressed the importance of regular cancer screenings in improving outcomes. “Consistent screenings allow for early detection, which is key to increasing survival rates,” she said. “For instance, catching breast cancer at its earliest stage can result in a 99% five-year survival rate, compared to just 27% for late-stage diagnoses.”
Screening tests such as mammograms, pap smears, and colonoscopies are vital tools in catching irregularities early, providing an opportunity for prompt intervention and treatment.
Spot the Symptoms Early
Symptoms of cancer can be varied, and Dr. Nyongesa encouraged individuals to stay vigilant for potential warning signs. Some key symptoms to watch for include:
Physical symptoms: Unexplained lumps, swelling, coughing, breathlessness, changes in bowel habits, unexpected bleeding, unintentional weight loss, fatigue, unexplained pain, and new moles.
Urinary system issues: Increased frequency of urination, difficulty urinating, or pain while urinating.
Other signs: Unusual breast changes, loss of appetite, persistent soreness, heartburn, and heavy night sweats.
Proactive Prevention: A Healthier Future
Dr. Nyongesa emphasized that making healthier lifestyle choices and addressing environmental risks are effective strategies for reducing cancer risk.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Avoid tobacco use, manage a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and limit alcohol consumption.
Vaccination: Vaccinations, such as those for HPV and hepatitis B, can help protect against viruses that increase the risk of certain cancers.
Environmental factors: Protect yourself from excessive UV radiation, use sunscreen, and minimize exposure to air pollution both indoors and outdoors.
Collective Effort for a Healthier Future
Dr. Nyongesa concluded, “On World Cancer Day, we are reminded of the profound impact cancer has not only on Africa but on the entire world. By adopting healthier lifestyles, ensuring access to vaccines, and prioritizing early detection, we can collectively reduce the burden of this devastating disease and pave the way for a healthier future.”
Her message calls for increased public awareness, urging people to take part in life-saving screenings and make informed choices about their health. With increased education and access to early detection, Dr. Nyongesa believes we can dramatically decrease cancer mortality rates in Africa and globally.
World Cancer Day serves as a powerful reminder of the need to act together, united by the shared goal of reducing the impact of cancer on future generations.
