More than 1,000 residents have undergone free colorectal cancer screening in Imo State as part of a large-scale intervention led by the David Omenukor Foundation to tackle rising cases of late-stage cancer diagnoses.
The exercise, held to mark the 2026 Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, brought together participants from across the state for screening, health education and expert sessions focused on early detection and prevention.
Representing the First Lady of Imo State, Chioma Uzodimma, the Commissioner for Health, Chioma Vivian Egu, described the initiative as timely, stressing the importance of early diagnosis in reducing cancer-related deaths.
She urged residents to watch for warning signs such as persistent bowel changes, blood in stool and unexplained fatigue.
Health experts at the event warned that colorectal cancer cases are increasingly being recorded among younger populations, particularly in developing countries.
A consultant at the Federal University Teaching Hospital Owerri, Christopher Ekwunife, said early screening remains the most effective way to prevent complications and fatalities.
“At an early stage, it is easier to treat and far less expensive. These are preventable deaths if detected early,” he said.
Founder of the foundation, Keyna Omenukor, said the campaign was designed to encourage Nigerians to prioritise regular medical checks and break the silence around colorectal cancer through open conversations.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Tertiary and Technical Education, Victor Nwachukwu, said plans were underway to extend awareness campaigns to tertiary institutions, targeting young people as key stakeholders in preventive healthcare.
The programme, organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Cancer Society and the Global Colon Cancer Association, featured contributions from medical professionals who emphasised the need for grassroots awareness and community engagement in combating cancer.
Organisers said the initiative also provided opportunities for further screenings, with support from diagnostic centres and volunteer medical teams.
Stakeholders at the event called for sustained public awareness, improved access to screening services and stronger collaboration to reduce the burden of colorectal cancer in Nigeria.
Reporting By Niran Odufayo