Dr Nwamaka Lasebikan, Director of Research and Innovation at the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, NICRAT, has revealed that a lot of Nigerians believe there is a supernatural element to breast cancer.
Speaking about the many myths, cultural perceptions, and structural barriers hindering early detection and treatment of breast cancer, Dr Lasebikan said;
“Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in Nigeria, yet many myths, cultural perceptions, and structural barriers hinder early detection and treatment. Misinformation about breast cancer is widespread in Nigeria, and it often leads to delayed diagnosis and poor treatment outcomes.
One of the most common myths include that ‘breast cancer is caused by spiritual attacks or witchcraft.’ Many believe cancer is a punishment or an attack from spiritual forces. This misconception discourages people from seeking medical care and instead relying on traditional healers. Breast cancer is a biological disease, not a spiritual affliction.
Some also erroneously say ‘If I don’t feel pain, it’s not cancer.’ However, most early-stage breast cancers are painless. Waiting for pain before seeking medical help can lead to late-stage diagnosis.
There are many who believe that ‘breast cancer means automatic death.’ This belief stems from the fact that many cases in Nigeria are diagnosed at stage 3 or 4, when treatment options are limited. However, early detection through clinical breast exams, ultrasounds, and mammograms significantly improves survival rates.
There’s also this wrong notion that ‘Only women get breast cancer.’ While much less common, men can also develop breast cancer, and stigma often prevents them from seeking help.
Meanwhile, to some certain people, it’s believed that ‘Squeezing or touching the breast too much causes cancer.’ However, there is no scientific evidence that breast stimulation causes cancer.
Addressing these misconceptions through community outreach, media campaigns, and culturally sensitive education programs is crucial to improving early diagnosis and treatment outcomes in Nigeria”.