The Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has urged Nigerians to embrace early lung cancer detection and healthier lifestyles to reduce the growing burden of the disease across the country.
Dr. Soludo, who is also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative, made the appeal in a statement issued in Awka on Saturday by her Media Aide, Daniel Ezeigwe, to commemorate the 2026 World Lung Cancer Day observed annually on August 1.
The theme for this year’s observance, “Stronger Together: United for Lung Cancer Awareness,” highlights the importance of collaboration among governments, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, the media, families and individuals in promoting awareness, early diagnosis, quality treatment and support for people living with lung cancer.
Describing lung cancer as one of the world’s leading causes of cancer-related deaths, Dr. Soludo noted that although tobacco smoking remains the major risk factor, non-smokers are also vulnerable through prolonged exposure to second-hand smoke, air pollution, radon gas, asbestos, harmful chemicals and certain genetic factors.
She advised Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, recurrent chest infections, persistent fatigue or hoarseness of voice, stressing that early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes.
The First Lady observed that advances in modern medicine, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, have significantly improved survival rates for patients diagnosed at an early stage.
She also encouraged the public to avoid tobacco use, reduce exposure to environmental pollutants, maintain healthy diets, engage in regular physical activity and undergo routine medical check-ups, including lung cancer screening for individuals at high risk.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative, Dr. Soludo said the organisation would continue to complement government efforts through sustained public health education, preventive healthcare campaigns and community-based advocacy aimed at promoting healthy living and reducing preventable diseases.
She further called on governments, development partners, healthcare institutions, researchers, the media and community leaders to increase investments in cancer awareness, screening, research and treatment services.
