Campus News

VC advocates regular health check-ups for early cancer detection

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has urged students, staff, and the general public to prioritise their health by undergoing regular medical check-ups for early detection of diseases, including cancer.

Prof. Egbewole made this call last Tuesday (January 4, 2025) at the NAPA World Cancer Day and Symposium 2025, organised by the Nigerian Association of Pharmacists in Academia (NAPA), Kwara state Chapter, held at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ilorin.

The symposium, organised in collaboration with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Kwara State, was themed “United by Unique”, and sub-themed “United Against Cancer”

Prof. Egbewole, who was represented by the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Suleiman Alabi, described cancer as a major health threat that affects both men and women.

He called on the government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to intensify efforts in health education and screening programmes.

The Vice Chancellor said, “Prevention is better than cure”, while urging people to take charge of their health before diseases manifest.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prof. Abdulganiu Giwa, who was represented by the Sub-Dean, Dr Ibrahim Eniayewu, described cancer as a deadly disease that must be fought collectively.

He commended NAPA for organising the event to educate the public on cancer prevention and treatment.

Delivering the keynote lecture, Pharm. (Dr) Modupe Lydia Olarewaju, MAW, represented by Pharm. Raheem Bolanle Rahamon, highlighted the significance of the World Cancer Day, an initiative of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

 She emphasised the importance of understanding cancer risks, early detection, and treatment.

Dr. Olarewaju noted key warning signs of cancer which include unusual breast changes, fatigue, abnormal bleeding, persistent coughing, and non-healing sores or ulcers.

She advised adopting prevention strategies such as avoiding tobacco use, maintaining a healthy diet, undergoing regular screenings, and engaging in physical exercise.

She also called for the adoption of Tele-Pharmacy initiatives to help patients in remote areas with limited access to healthcare.

Also speaking, the Kwara State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, who was represented by Pharm. Gbadamosi Thoufiq, urged the public to embrace early cancer detection and avoid neglecting routine health check-ups.

She commended the organisers for their efforts in enlightening the populace about cancer prevention.

On his part, the NAPA Chairman, Pharm. (Dr) Kayode M. Salawu, reiterated the importance of uniting against cancer, stressing that research and knowledge sharing are crucial in combating the disease. He urged individuals to be proactive about their health.

Similarly, the Chairman of the PSN Kwara State Chapter, Pharm. Abdulmalik Mohammed Baba, emphasised the critical role of pharmacists in cancer research, treatment, and awareness campaigns.

He praised the University of Ilorin Management for supporting such an impactful symposium.

In her remarks, (Dr) Felicia Esemekiphoraro Williams of the Department of Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Ilorin, stressed the need for specialised care for cancer patients, emphasising the necessity of thorough research before treatment.

In his vote of thanks, Dr Muslim Jamiu, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Chairman, expressed gratitude to the University management and guests for their participation in the event.

The symposium featured a cancer research presentation and award of certificates in recognition of contributions to cancer awareness and prevention.

The event served as a call to action for individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to prioritise early detection, prevention, and research in the fight against cancer.