Doctors sound alarm on rare Cancer creeping through Nigeria

By Joshua Olomu

Medical experts and health advocates have called for heightened public awareness to promote early detection and treatment of kidney cancer in Nigeria.

The call was made during a symposium in Abuja organised by the Move Against Cancer Africa (MACA) to mark the 2025 World Kidney Cancer Day (WKCD).

The event brought together oncologists, urologists, public health experts, and cancer advocates to push for a stronger national response to kidney cancer.

Dr Uchechukwu Shagaya, Senior Consultant Oncologist at the National Hospital Abuja and Chairperson of the Nigerian Medical Association’s (NMA-FCT) Cancer Committee, stressed that kidney cancer remains under-recognised in Nigeria. She warned that despite being rare, the disease can progress silently.

“Many patients don’t show symptoms early. When symptoms do occur, they may include blood in the urine, lower back pain, or foamy urine,” she said, adding that “Avoiding self-medication and consulting qualified health professionals is critical.”

Shagaya added that awareness campaigns could help influence policies that support early diagnosis and improve access to treatment.

Also speaking, Dr Onwuasoanya Uzodinma, a Consultant Urologist and Kidney Transplant Surgeon at Zenith Medical and Kidney Centre, underscored the role of advocacy in combating the disease.

He highlighted the dangers of misdiagnosis due to overlapping symptoms with other illnesses.

“Kidney cancer mimics many other conditions. Early detection allows for curative surgery and better outcomes. Unfortunately, most of our patients present late, which limits treatment options,” he said.

He also noted that lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to radiation increase cancer risks.

Mr Isaac Joseph, a cancer patient advocate and MACA official, said the symposium was supported by the International Kidney Cancer Coalition (IKCC).

He explained that the event aimed to build a collaborative framework for addressing kidney cancer in Nigeria.

“This is an opportunity to share global patient survey results and identify local gaps in care. We want to raise the visibility of kidney cancer and build actionable strategies,” he said.

Public health professional Ogechukwu Akabuike of MACA added that the focus must remain on accurate information and early diagnosis.

“Prevention is cheaper than cure. If we inform people properly, they will make better health decisions,” she said.

The event featured a panel discussion and a presentation of Nigeria’s findings from the Global Kidney Cancer Patient Survey by Dr Abiodun Egwuenu. (NAN)