Abuja, Nigeria — September 18, 2025
Prostate cancer has been identified as the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Nigerian men, with health experts warning that the disease often develops silently and is detected at advanced stages when treatment options are limited.
Recent data from the Global Cancer Observatory and peer-reviewed Nigerian studies show that the country records one of the highest prostate cancer incidence rates in Africa. Many patients present late due to low awareness, poor access to screening, and the absence of a coordinated national screening programme.
Public health professionals caution that early-stage prostate cancer may not present symptoms, leading to its description as a “silent killer.” They emphasize that men aged 50 and above — and those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history should seek medical advice on screening options including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal examinations.
While screening can help detect the disease earlier, experts also highlight the need for informed decision-making due to potential risks of overdiagnosis and overtreatment.
“Earlier detection and stronger referral systems could significantly improve survival rates for Nigerian men,” specialists noted, urging government and stakeholders to invest in awareness campaigns, diagnostic services, and timely treatment pathways.
Researchers further recommend targeted education programmes to address misconceptions and encourage men to prioritize prostate health, as strengthening early detection remains critical to reducing mortality.
