Prostate cancer: Nigeria has less than 200 urologists – Consultant urologist

BRECAN, OAF stakeholders push for early detection

By Oluseye Ojo

A consultant urologist at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Dr Adekola Adebayo, has said Nigeria has less than 200 urologists to attend to a population of over 200 million, which is below global recommendations. Some reports suggest a global recommendation of 20 specialists per 100,000 people, which would require a higher number of urologists to meet the needs of Nigeria’s population.

Adebayo made the disclosure in his keynote address during a prostate cancer symposium, with the theme “Prostate Cancer: Early Detection, Timely Action, Saving Lives”, organised by Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) in collaboration with Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Foundation (OAF), held at Ibadan Business School, Bodija, Ibadan. The programme was held in memory of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), a former Governor of Ondo State.

He stated that it was doubtful if there is any preventive measure for prostate cancer that guarantees 100 per cent effectiveness. He added that the focus should be on early detection. He advised that men should not wait until they have reached the advanced stage of prostate cancer before presenting themselves for medical attention.

He identified poor health-seeking habits, stigma and shame of discussing private parts in public, lack of awareness, misinformation, and dangerous religious and cultural practices as part of what shortens the lifespan of men in respect of prostate cancer.

He stated that part of the challenges against medical attention for prostate cancer are lack of capacity and personnel, outdated biopsy techniques, delay in obtaining biopsy reports, and inadequate centres and prohibitive cost of staging images.

Meanwhile, critical stakeholders at the symposium, including the former First Lady of Ondo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, who is the founder of BRECAN, made advocacy for advancement of men’s health through knowledge, collaboration, early detection, and early actions.

According to her, “Prostate cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among men in sub-Saharan Africa, yet it is one of the cancers where early detection offers the greatest chance for survival.

“Sadly, silence, stigma, inadequate awareness, and delayed health-seeking behaviour continue to cost our men their lives.”

She added that the aim of the organisers is to foster meaningful dialogue, and galvanise stakeholders towards timely intervention and improved outcomes for men at risk of, or living with, prostate cancer.

“We bring together experts in urology, oncology, pathology, public health, lifestyle medicine, patient navigation and community advocacy—because defeating this disease requires a multidisciplinary and collective approach.

“We are here to confront the silence. We are here to change the narrative. We are here to equip families, communities, and caregivers with the information they need to save lives.

“As an organisation rooted in advocacy and evidence-based action, BRECAN remains committed to ensuring that no Nigerian—man or woman—suffers or dies due to ignorance, neglect, or lack of access to timely care. Our partnership with OAF is a testament to the power of collaboration and a shared vision for a healthier Nigeria.

“The fight against prostate cancer is not one we can win in silos. It demands unity, commitment, and sustained action. Together, let us advance men’s health. Together, let us strengthen early detection and prompt treatment. Together, let us save lives.”

Speakers at the programme, including Abidemi Omonisi, President and Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Cancer Society; Prof Olufemi Ogunbiyi, a Consultant Pathologist at UCH; Dr Foluke Sarimiye, Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist at UCH; Dr Teniola Akeredolu-Michaels, a lifestyle medicine physician and daughter of former Governor Akeredolu; Dr Oyegbade Akinyele, a consultant anaesthetist, UCH; and Mr Promise Ihezie, Chief Operating Officer, BRECAN; emphasised the importance of understanding prostate cancer, awareness, early detection, and annual medical checkups in a bid to prevent untimely death for men.