A clinical oncologist and senior lecturer at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Dr. Muhammad Habeebu, has warned that frequent consumption of alcohol, junk food, and a sedentary lifestyle significantly increases the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly among women.
Dr. Habeebu, who is also the Chief Clinical Coordinator at the NSIA-LUTH Cancer Centre, explained that while gender remains the most important risk factor — with about 99 percent of breast cancer cases occurring in women — certain lifestyle habits can further heighten susceptibility.
“The older a woman gets, the higher her chances of developing breast cancer,” he said.
“Black women also tend to develop the disease at a younger age compared to their Caucasian counterparts.”
He identified hormonal contraceptives, late childbirth, and failure to breastfeed as additional risk factors.
“Women who have their first child before age 25 are less likely to develop breast cancer, and breastfeeding offers a natural form of protection,” he added.
According to Habeebu, genetic mutations — particularly in the BRCA gene — can make entire families more vulnerable to breast cancer. He noted that though men account for about one percent of total cases, shared genetic links expose them to similar risks.
The oncologist emphasized that prevention and early detection remain the best forms of defence. He advised women to embrace regular exercise, avoid processed and fatty foods, limit alcohol intake, and go for periodic medical check-ups.
“Every woman should perform self-breast examinations, undergo clinical breast checks at least twice a year, and get a mammogram or ultrasound when necessary,” he said.
Dr. Habeebu cautioned against the reliance on herbal concoctions and unverified remedies, stressing that such practices often worsen patients’ conditions.
“Many patients report late for treatment because of fear of chemotherapy and false hope in herbal mixtures,” he said. “No herbal remedy has been scientifically proven to cure cancer.”
He also decried the high cost of cancer treatment in Nigeria, describing access to care as one of the major challenges confronting patients despite initiatives such as the Cancer Health Fund and the CAP Programme.
Habeebu urged Nigerians, especially women, to adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce cancer risks.
“Regular physical activity not only prevents cancer but also protects against hypertension and diabetes,” he concluded.
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