October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What Every Nigerian Woman (and Man) Should Know About Early Detection

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and in Nigeria the message is clear: early detection saves lives. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is urging Nigerians—especially women—to prioritize screening and act early when they notice changes in their breasts.

Why this matters in Nigeria

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among Nigerian women. National estimates suggest around 32,278 new cases and 16,332 deaths each year, with many people presenting at late stages when treatment is more difficult and costly.

The good news: catching breast cancer early greatly improves treatment options and survival.

What “early detection” really means

Early detection is about two things:

• Knowing your normal – how your breasts usually look and feel.

• Taking action quickly when you notice something new or unusual.

Warning signs to never ignore

See a clinician promptly if you notice any of the following (especially if they persist beyond one menstrual cycle):

• A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm

• Change in breast size, shape, or symmetry

• Dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin

• Nipple changes (inversion, scaling, discharge—especially bloody)

• Persistent, unexplained breast pain in one area

How to do a simple breast self-check

• Once a month (about a week after your period ends), try this:

• Look in the mirror with arms at your sides, then raised: check for changes in shape, skin texture, or nipple position.

• Feel while lying down or in the shower: use the pads of your fingers in small circles, covering the whole breast and armpit area with light, medium, then firm pressure.

• Squeeze the nipple gently to check for discharge.

• Repeat on the other breast.

If anything feels new or different, don’t panic—but do book an appointment.

Clinical screening: what to ask for

• Self-checks are helpful, but they don’t replace clinical evaluation. Ask your doctor about:

• Clinical breast exam (by a trained health worker)

• Imaging such as ultrasound or mammogram, based on your age, risk, and symptoms

• Referral to a breast clinic or oncology centre if needed

NHIA has highlighted that insured patients can access financial protection for cancer care, so check your plan and ask about coverage for diagnostics and treatment.

Who is at higher risk?

Risk increases with:

• Age (especially after 40)

• Family history of breast or ovarian cancer

• Certain genetic factors

• Late first pregnancy or no pregnancies

• Obesity, alcohol use, and physical inactivity

Even if you’re “low risk,” early detection still matters—many cases occur in women without obvious risk factors.

What you can do this October

• Learn the warning signs and share them with family and friends.

• Book a breast health check if you’re due or if you’ve noticed changes.

• Support a screening drive or awareness event in your community or workplace.

• Normalize conversations about breast health so no one feels ashamed to seek help.

This October, make early detection your habit. If you notice anything unusual, speak to a clinician promptly.

Your health is worth it—and acting early can change your story.

Sources: NHIA breast cancer early detection campaign; Nigeria cancer burden estimates cited in NHIA materials.