An oncologist has identified misinformation and delays in seeking medical attention as major factors contributing to cancer-related deaths in Nigeria.
Dr Lateef Salako, a Consultant Oncologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, made the observation while speaking at the 2025/2026 Recognition Day, Walimah and graduation ceremony of MIMBAR Schools in Ibadan on Sunday.
Salako, who delivered a lecture at the event, expressed concern over the spread of inaccurate information and unfounded claims about cancer, saying such narratives could influence patients to postpone proper medical care.
According to him, some cancer patients are persuaded by misleading advice to avoid hospitals or reject medically recommended treatments, thereby allowing the disease to advance before they eventually seek professional help.
He stressed that detecting cancer early and commencing appropriate treatment promptly remain crucial to improving patients’ chances of recovery.
The oncologist explained that cancer detected at stages I and II can often be treated, while treatment outcomes become more difficult to predict when the disease progresses to stages III and IV.
“When treatment is delayed, the disease continues to progress,” Salako said, adding that misinformation sometimes leads patients to reject chemotherapy, surgery and other evidence-based treatment options.
He urged members of the public to rely on qualified medical professionals for information about cancer and to seek medical attention promptly whenever symptoms or other concerns arise.
Salako also noted that cancer is not restricted to any particular age group, pointing out that the disease can affect anyone, including unborn babies.
School Promotes Academic and Moral Development
Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of MIMBAR Schools, Mr Akinwale Akinlabi, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to combining academic education with Islamic values.
Akinlabi said the school’s objective was to develop students academically while also equipping them with strong moral and ethical values.
He appreciated parents for their continued support and said the institution had recorded growth in its student population despite facing some challenges.
The chairman of the occasion, Mr Akinkunmi Ajisafe, similarly urged parents to pay attention to their children’s moral development alongside their academic achievements.
Ajisafe argued that academic success should be complemented by sound moral upbringing to contribute to the development of a better society.
The special guest, Alhaji Cyril Idemudia, also praised the school for combining Western and Islamic education. He said he had observed considerable improvement in his children’s education since they enrolled at the institution two years ago.
Speaking for the graduating students, Miss Ameerah Erale, who emerged as the best graduating student, credited her achievement to God, regular reading, and the support of her parents and teachers.
The ceremony featured the unveiling of the school yearbook, drama presentations, certificate presentations and awards, among other activities.
