A senior lecturer at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Dr. Muhammad Habeebu, has listed alcohol intake, sedentary habits, and consumption of processed or junk foods as key lifestyle factors that heighten the risk of breast cancer, especially in women.
Dr. Habeebu, a consultant radiation and clinical oncologist and chief clinical coordinator at the NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre, noted that although being female is the strongest risk factor — with women accounting for about 99% of breast cancer cases — certain lifestyle choices can further increase vulnerability.
According to him, the risk of breast cancer rises with age, and studies show that black women often develop the disease earlier than white women. He added that hormonal contraceptives, delayed childbirth, and not breastfeeding also contribute to higher risk.
“Women who have their first child before age 25 generally have a lower risk, and breastfeeding offers significant protection,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of genetics, pointing out that inherited mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can predispose entire families to breast cancer. While rare, men can also be affected, accounting for about one per cent of cases.
Emphasizing prevention, Dr. Habeebu advised women to adopt healthier lifestyles, limit alcohol consumption, avoid fatty and processed foods, and exercise regularly.
He encouraged routine self-breast examinations, clinical check-ups every six months, and mammograms or ultrasound screenings when appropriate.
He expressed concern that fear and myths surrounding chemotherapy cause many patients to seek treatment late, reducing survival chances. He also cautioned against relying on unproven herbal treatments, urging patients to seek proper medical care early.
Dr. Habeebu acknowledged that access to cancer treatment in Nigeria remains difficult due to high costs, despite support initiatives such as the Cancer Health Fund and the CAP programme.
He concluded by stressing the importance of screening and healthy living, adding that regular exercise also helps prevent conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Source: Channels TV
