Professor Yusuf Dasilva, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), has emphasized that men can also be affected by breast cancer and has urged individuals of all genders to prioritize regular screenings. His remarks came during a ‘Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness’ event in Ilorin, part of the initiatives for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The event, themed “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone,” was organized by UITH in collaboration with the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN). Dasilva, represented by Prof. Bilyaminu Abayomi, the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) at UITH, explained that breast cancer occurs when malignant cells form in breast tissues.
He highlighted various risk factors, including:
- Increasing age
- Obesity
- Harmful alcohol consumption
- Family history of breast cancer
- History of radiation exposure
- Reproductive history (such as age of menstruation onset and age at first pregnancy)
- Tobacco use
- Postmenopausal hormone therapy
Dasilva stated that the theme of the awareness campaign was crucial for combating the stigma surrounding breast cancer and facilitating open discussions about the disease. He noted that the event aimed to share knowledge, disseminate vital information about breast cancer, and encourage people to seek early diagnosis through regular screenings, which can significantly enhance treatment outcomes.
He reassured attendees that breast cancer is not necessarily a death sentence and emphasized the importance of early diagnosis for effective treatment. Dr. Olushola Fasiku, a Consultant General Surgeon at UITH, also stressed the significance of raising awareness about breast cancer to improve health outcomes.