Each year on February 4, the world comes together to commemorate World Cancer Day, aimed at raising awareness and stimulating action against one of humanity’s deadliest diseases.
This year makes it twenty-five years since the signing of the Charter of Paris Against Cancer at the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium.
The 2025 theme, “United by Unique,” spotlights the importance of individualised patient experiences and the collective strength of healthcare providers, families, and communities in the fight against cancer.
The Global and Nigerian Cancer Burden
Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide, with cases on the rise. In 2020, the world recorded 19.3 million new cancer cases and 10 million deaths. The most commonly diagnosed cancer globally is breast cancer, followed by lung cancer. Among men, prostate cancer ranks highest, with colorectal, liver, and lung cancers also presenting major concerns.
In Nigeria, the statistics are equally alarming. Breast cancer leads the charge among women, with over 32,200 new cases and 16,300 deaths annually. Cervical cancer remains the second deadliest cancer among Nigerian women. For men, prostate, colorectal, and liver cancers are the most frequently diagnosed, posing significant health challenges.
Bad Habits That Increase Cancer Risk
While genetics play a role in cancer susceptibility, lifestyle choices influence risk levels. Below are some common but dangerous habits that may unknowingly increase one’s risk of developing cancer:
Tobacco Use/Smoking
Tobacco is responsible for up to 30% of cancer-related deaths worldwide and is linked to 14 different types of cancer, including lung, throat, bladder, and pancreatic cancer. Smokers are at 23 times higher risk of lung cancer compared to non-smokers.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Heavy drinking significantly raises the risk of cancers of the esophagus, liver, colon, and breast. For example, consuming just 150ml of wine or 360ml of beer daily increases breast cancer risk by 23% and colon cancer by 17%.
Sedentary Lifestyle & Poor Diet
A diet high in saturated fats and red meat combined with a lack of physical activity, can increase the risk of colorectal cancer by 45%. Obesity, in turn, raises the likelihood of breast, pancreatic, and stomach cancers by 30%.
Frequent Consumption of Barbecued & Processed Foods
Burnt meats contain pyrolysates, which can heighten the risk of stomach and intestinal cancers. Similarly, processed foods high in nitrates, nitrites, and artificial additives such as bacon, ham and hotdog have been linked to increased cancer risk.
Prolonged Sun Exposure Without Protection
Overexposure to UV rays can lead to melanoma and other skin cancers. Individuals who experience severe sunburn six times or more before age 25 are at 2.7 times higher risk of developing melanoma.
High Intake of Sugary Drinks & Artificial Sweeteners
Excessive consumption of sweetened beverages, particularly those containing aspartame, has been linked to hematologic cancers in some studies.
Chronic Stress & Poor Sleep Habits
While stress alone may not directly cause cancer, it can lead to behaviors that increase risk—such as smoking and alcohol use. Disruptions to sleep patterns, including staying up late or sleeping with mobile phones nearby, can impact melatonin levels, potentially influencing cancer risk.
The Power of Prevention
The good news? Many cancer cases are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices:
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Engage in regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week).
- Limit alcohol intake and avoid processed meats.
- Protect your skin with sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Ensure adequate sleep and manage stress effectively.
United Against Cancer
The theme “United by Unique” serves as a reminder that while each cancer journey is different, collective action is the key to making progress. Governments, healthcare professionals, researchers, and individuals must work together to promote prevention, improve treatments, and support those affected by cancer.
