Eating Your Way to Health: Dietitian Warns Nigerians of Colon Cancer Risk

In a recent health talk, Assistant Chief Dietitian Esther Oyewole from the Federal Medical Center, Abeokuta, urged Nigerians to prioritize adding fruits and vegetables to their diets to avoid developing colon cancer. According to Oyewole, the alarming prevalence of colon cancer in Nigeria, with 66 out of 100,000 people affected, makes it crucial for individuals to take proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

During her lecture on "How to Eat Healthy" at the Nigeria Institute of Town Planners’ 2024 Annual General Meeting, Oyewole stressed that a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can ease bowel movements and prevent clogging of the alimentary canal. She emphasized that it is essential for individuals above 40 to prioritize a balanced diet, as colon cancer is a common risk associated with age.

The dietitian also shed light on the signs of colon cancer, which can include bleeding in women, appetite loss, and weight loss. She urged town planners, in particular, to prioritize regular health check-ups, despite economic challenges, as they often neglect their own health due to busy schedules and workload.

The call to action was met with appreciation from the audience, with former National President Waheed Kadiri noting that the lecture was well-timed, given the busy lifestyles of town planners. Adefela Shogbesan, state NITP chairman, added that the event aimed to address the shortage of town planners in the state, citing that they often lack the time to prioritize their health.

The finding that the Ogun State government lacks sufficient town planners working with the government has led to unregulated development in the state. To address this issue, Lagos State has looked into collaborations with external consultants, and Shogbesan suggests that Ogun State follow suit.

As Oyewole’s warning underscores the importance of a healthy diet in preventing colon cancer, it is clear that making dietary changes is crucial for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. By incorporating fruits and vegetables into daily meals, Nigerians can reduce their risk of developing colon cancer and improve their overall well-being.