Our lovely people of Rivers State, I bring you greetings today and welcome you to another episode of Rivethics on Radio, our character-building weekend show. Please remember that there is much truth in the saying that ignorance is a disease, for the simple reason that lots of diseases are caused by ignorance on the part of the patient. This episode is in commemoration of the United Nations World Cancer Day, which comes up next Tuesday, February 4.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, and is responsible for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018 alone. Globally, about 1 in 6 deaths is due to cancer, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). What is also very disturbing is that approximately 70% of these deaths from cancer occur in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. Most of these countries do not have the necessary data to drive cancer policy and inaccessible diagnosis and treatment are common trends in this countries.
Again, it is noteworthy that the economic impact of cancer is significant and is increasing for patients, their families, communities, countries and the world. The total global annual economic cost of cancer in 2010 was estimated at approximately US$ 1.16 trillion. That was a huge loss for these poor countries bearing the brunt.
While governments and policy makers are working hard to keep us healthy, we must do our part through preventive measures, medical checks and presenting ourselves for medical attention early at the slightest indication of Cancer symptoms.
Around one third of deaths from cancer are due to the 5 leading behavioral and dietary risks: high body mass index, low fruit and vegetable intake, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, and alcohol use. In all 5 instances, individuals can take concrete steps to eliminate or minimize each risk factor, and thereby considerably reduce the risk of coming down with Cancer.
When identified early, cancer is more likely to respond to effective treatment and can result in a greater probability of surviving, less morbidity, and less expensive treatment. We must do our part to stop the havoc Cancer wreaks in lives and livelihoods.
Let us listen to our guest speaker as she sheds more light on this subject. She is
Dr. Mrs. Tondor Cleopatra Uzosike, a Public Health Physician and Lecturer in Rivers State University. Please enjoy the episode.
Our wonderful Rivers people, don’t forget to always let your manners speak for you.
God bless you and keep you and your families. And God bless Rivers State.