World Cancer Day: Consultant wants FG to create more cancer centres

Dr Tijani Oseni, a consultant and family physician has urged the Federal Government to build functional and well equipped cancer centres across the country for the treatment of the disease.

Oseni made the call in an interview with the Newsverge on Saturday, noting that the 2017 edition World Cancer Day was observed well in Auchi Etsako West Local Government Area, Edo.

Newsverge reports that the World Cancer Day is celebrated annually on Feb. 4 across the world and the theme for 2017 is “We Can, I Can’’.

Oseni said that few teaching hospitals in the country had few cancer facilities and equipment.

“Only three hospitals specialise in the treatment of cancer in Nigeria with obsolete equipment to work with.

“Governments need to create more awareness on cancer and engage in public private partnerships to create more centres,’’ he said.

The consultant said that many cancers could be prevented by avoiding exposure to common risk factors such as tobacco smoke and industrial smoke.

He advised people to always go for regular medical check-up for early detection and treatment of cancer.

“To avoid cancer and ensure healthy living, people need and eat healthy food which provide minerals and vitamins to fight cancerous diseases,’’ he said.