As the world marks World Cancer Day (WCD), Monday, an Abuja based non-governmental organisation (NGO), Helpline Foundation for the Needy, has called for intensive advocacy, proper diet and regular check-up as means of reducing the spread of cancer.
The Foundation in press statement by President of the Foundation, Dr Jummai Ahmadu, Sunday in Abuja, also called for global support and states to do more in taming the scourge of cancer globally.
Dr. Jummai observed that out of the estimated 2.1 million new cases of cancer over 58 percent occur in less developed countries, even as she noted that cancer like many other deadly diseases does not choose according to the class, national, cultural or any other position.
The Foundation president while stating that cancer has a global scale and anybody may step into a new day be knocked down by cancer, harped on preventive measures.
Speaking further on the significance of prevention, she said: “research has shown that there is a direct link between the dietary preferences, physically active way of life, normal weight and cancer prevention. The statistics says that around 30-40 percent of cancers are associated with the diet.
“Some food produce, may increase your cancer risk meanwhile others may inhibit cancer cell growth. The question is what are these magic products which will contribute to our well being? To get them, we do not need to go to other countries of the world and there is no need to earn a fortune to buy them, everything we need to fight cancer is here in Nigeria.
“You just need to eat foods of plant origin rich with nutrients, vitamins, mineral and fiber. The crucial issue is that you must consume these foods on a daily basis. It should become your habit to have enough daily portion of dietary beneficial food.
“Research has equally shown that the Mediterranean diet is the best approach to tackle cancer. In the world there is no better option for those who are in search of having a fruit and vegetable dense meal.The Mediterranean eating culture excludes all negative factors that may provoke cancer. People should reduce the consumption of red meat to the barest minimum, and every dish has a balanced combination of effective anti-cancer elements.
“In some quarters, it is said that the tradition of having wine during the dinner time has also a good effect. The wine contains flavonoids which are scientifically proved to be great anti-cancer agents. The wine is definitely alcohol and is not associated with a healthy way of life but if taken in moderation during a day it won’t harm you at all.”
