NAUS President Warns of Increasing Bladder Cancer Cases in Nigeria

The President of the Association of Urological Surgeons of Nigeria (NAUS), Prof. Nuhu Dakum, has raised concerns over a rising number of cancer cases affecting the bladder and testicles, noting that these conditions, once considered rare, are increasingly being seen in clinics nationwide.

He highlighted that while prostate cancer remains the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in Nigeria, cases of bladder and testicular cancers are emerging as a significant public health concern.

Nigeria reportedly records around 127,000 new cancer cases each year, resulting in approximately 80,000 deaths, according to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate. Globally, the World Health Organization predicts over 35 million new cancer cases by 2050, representing a 77% increase from the estimated 20 million in 2022.

Speaking on trends in urological cancers, Dakum, a professor of surgery at the University of Jos, said the rising incidence of bladder and testicular cancers is worrying, although exact statistics are not yet available.

“We are increasingly seeing cancers of other urological organs, such as the bladder and testes, compared to what we used to encounter. The numbers are significant and growing,” he said.

He explained that testicular cancer develops when malignant cells form in one or both testicles, which are the walnut-shaped glands responsible for producing sperm and testosterone. Bladder cancer, on the other hand, typically starts in the lining of the bladder, a small hollow organ that stores urine. Both cancers, he noted, require timely medical attention, although testicular cancer is highly treatable and often curable.

While prostate cancer continues to dominate urological diagnoses in Nigeria, Dakum observed a steady rise in cases over the last five years, attributing the increase to heightened awareness and improved diagnostic facilities.

“The positive development is that more cases are being detected earlier, allowing for effective treatment and even potential cures. Previously, most patients presented at very advanced stages when options were limited,” he said.

Dakum urged men not to wait for symptoms to appear before seeking medical evaluation, recommending the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test for early detection. He stressed that routine check-ups are especially important for men with a family history of prostate cancer.

On risk factors, he noted that age, race, family history, and genetics remain the primary determinants for urological cancers, with black men being particularly at risk.

For prevention, Dakum encouraged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles. “A balanced diet low in fats and animal protein, rich in fruits and vegetables, combined with regular exercise, supports overall health and prostate health in particular. Early detection remains crucial for successful outcomes,” he advised.