Breast Cancer in Nigeria: Why Early Detection Matters

October is more than just the month when pink ribbons appear everywhere. It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to talk about a disease that affects millions of women around the world and thousands of families in Nigeria.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally. In 2024 alone, an estimated 2.4 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer worldwide, while about 694,000 died from the disease. WHO

And Nigeria is not left out.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), breast cancer accounted for 32,278 new cases among Nigerian women in 2022, making it the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the country. IARC

One of the biggest issues surrounding breast cancer is not simply the disease itself, but how late some cases are discovered.

When breast cancer is detected early, treatment can begin sooner and the chances of better outcomes are generally higher. WHO's Global Breast Cancer Initiative focuses heavily on early detection, timely diagnosis and access to complete treatment. WHO

This is why knowing what is normal for your breasts matters.

A lump or thickening in the breast, a change in breast size or shape, changes to the skin or nipple, or unusual or bloody nipple discharge can be warning signs that should be checked by a healthcare professional. WHO

Not every breast change means cancer. But ignoring a change because it does not hurt or because you are young is not a good idea.

There is a common belief that breast cancer is something you only need to worry about if someone in your family has had it.

That is not necessarily true.

WHO says around 80% of breast cancers occur in women without a specific risk factor other than sex and age. Having a family history can increase risk, but the absence of one does not mean a person cannot develop breast cancer.

Age, family history, obesity, alcohol use, tobacco use, reproductive history and previous radiation exposure are among factors associated with increased risk. WHO

Breast Cancer Awareness Month should not end with wearing pink or sharing a social media graphic.

It should encourage action.

Pay attention to changes in your breasts. If you notice something unusual, speak with a healthcare professional rather than trying to diagnose yourself.

Ask questions about your personal risk and what screening is appropriate for your age and circumstances.

And if someone you know is going through breast cancer, support matters too. A diagnosis can affect not only the patient but also their family, finances, work and emotional wellbeing. Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare

WHO's 2026 campaign theme, “Every story is unique, every journey matters,” highlights the fact that there is no single breast cancer experience. People need access to timely diagnosis, quality treatment and support regardless of where they live or how much they earn. World Health Organisation

Breast cancer awareness is not about creating fear. It is about creating knowledge.

The earlier people recognise possible warning signs and seek appropriate medical attention, the better the opportunity for timely diagnosis and treatment.

This October, take a few minutes to learn about breast health. Encourage the women around you to do the same. And if you notice a change that concerns you, don't simply hope it disappears.

Know your body. Ask questions. Get checked.

Because behind every diagnosis is a person, a family and a story, and every story matters.

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