By Suad Ayinla
Edited by Bababunmi Agbebi
How many Nigerians wait until they feel seriously ill before taking their health seriously?
The death of veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has renewed conversations about cancer, early detection and the importance of regular healthcare. Hassan, who was 66, reportedly died after battling cancer, leaving fans and colleagues mourning the loss of an actor whose career spanned decades.
For many Nigerians, Hassan’s death is more than the loss of a respected entertainer. It is also a reminder that serious illnesses can affect anyone, regardless of age, profession or social status. His passing has prompted renewed conversations about cancer and the need for Nigerians to take preventive healthcare more seriously rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally. According to the World Health Organisation, cancer caused nearly 10 million deaths worldwide in 2024. However, cancer is not a single disease, and outcomes depend on factors including the type of cancer, when it is detected and whether appropriate treatment is available. The WHO says many cancers have a higher chance of being cured when detected early and treated properly.
This makes regular healthcare important, but it is also necessary to correct a common misconception: people do not need to undergo cancer tests every day. There is no general recommendation for daily cancer screening. Screening schedules depend on factors such as age, sex, family history and individual risk. What people can do daily is pay attention to changes in their bodies and seek medical advice when something unusual persists.
Unexplained weight loss, unusual bleeding, persistent lumps or swelling, prolonged changes in bowel or bladder habits, persistent pain or unexplained fatigue can sometimes be warning signs of illness. These symptoms do not automatically mean someone has cancer, but persistent or unusual changes should not be ignored or treated through self-medication. A qualified healthcare professional can determine whether further tests are necessary.
Regular medical check-ups and recommended screenings can also help detect certain diseases before they become advanced. Depending on an individual’s age and risk factors, healthcare professionals may recommend screening for cancers such as breast, cervical or colorectal cancer. Preventive measures such as avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet and receiving recommended vaccinations can also reduce the risk of some cancers.
For many Nigerians, however, seeking medical care is often delayed because of cost, fear, busy schedules or the belief that a health problem will eventually disappear. Others rely on self-medication or unverified remedies before visiting a hospital. These delays can become dangerous when a serious illness is involved, because early diagnosis can provide a better opportunity for effective treatment.
Taiwo Hassan’s death should therefore not only be remembered through tributes to his contribution to Nollywood. It should also serve as an opportunity for Nigerians to rethink their approach to preventive healthcare.
The message is simple: do not wait until you are seriously ill before checking your health. Know your body, attend appropriate routine medical appointments, follow recommended screening guidelines and speak with a healthcare professional when something does not feel right.
Because sometimes, the most important health decision is the one you make before the symptoms become impossible to ignore.
