Why Nigerians Are Getting Colon Cancer: Lifestyle and Diet Factors

Medical experts are sounding the alarm over a sharp rise in colorectal cancer among young Nigerians. They warn that changing lifestyles and late diagnosis are driving this troubling trend across the country.

Historically, this disease mostly affected people in their 60s and 70s. However, specialists now see a significant shift toward much younger age groups. Many patients now fall within the 30 to 50-year old bracket.

Cases are even appearing in individuals in their early 20s, and the situation is becoming a “pandemic” among the youth.

Dr. Ganiyat Oyeleke is a Consultant Gastroenterologist at Gastroderm Clinic in Lagos. She says that Westernised diets are a key driver of this risk. These diets are often highly processed and very low in fibre.

“These diets promote gut changes and inflammation,” Oyeleke stated. She also noted that cooking methods like open-flame charcoal grilling or smoking produce harmful chemicals.

These toxins further increase the risk of cancer when food is charred.

In addition, physical inactivity and rising obesity levels contribute to the burden. Excess body weight is a known factor in cancer development.

Metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes are also being seen at younger ages today.

These conditions link to chronic inflammation that may promote tumour growth. Genetic disposition also plays a role in some cases.

Families with a history of the disease often see an earlier onset in younger relatives.

Early Warning Signs and Importance of Routine Medical Screening

Dr. Eben Aje is a Consultant Radiation Oncologist at the Medserve LUTH Cancer Centre.

He noted that regular screening is the only way to tackle the disease early, but regrets that unfortunately, many young people ignore symptoms until the cancer is advanced.

“One of the most important symptoms that should never be ignored is rectal bleeding,” Oyeleke stated.

Many young people assume this is just piles or “jedi-jedi.” However, persistent bleeding mixed with stool requires immediate medical evaluation.

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Other warning signs include a lasting change in bowel habits.

This might be new constipation or diarrhoea that stays for several weeks. Unexplained weight loss and persistent abdominal pain are also major red flags.

In some cases, patients notice “pencil-thin” stools. This suggests a possible blockage in the colon.

Aje noted that a colonoscopy provides the best chance for a cure. During this test, doctors can find and remove suspicious growths before they turn into cancer.

This development is vital because colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.

Early detection through screening can save lives. Most colon cancers begin as small clumps of cells called polyps which are not initially cancerous.

Treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

New immunotherapy trials are also beginning in Nigeria to offer hope for advanced cases. However, prevention through a high-fibre diet and regular exercise remains the best defense for young Nigerians.

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