The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Prof. Yusuf Dasilva, has called on both men and women to go for breast cancer screenings, revealing that men are also susceptible to the disease.

Dasilva made this known in Ilorin during an interview on the sidelines of a ‘Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness,’ organized in collaboration with the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) as part of activities to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Speaking through Prof. Bilyaminu Abayomi, the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) at UITH, Dasilva explained, “Breast cancer is a disease where malignant (cancer) cells form in the breast tissue, and no one is immune, not even men.”

He highlighted risk factors including age, obesity, alcohol consumption, family history, radiation exposure, and tobacco use.

He also warned against postmenopausal hormone therapy, adding that early detection and regular screening could be life-saving.

This year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month carries the theme, “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone,” which Dasilva described as a call to action against stigmatization of those affected.

“We need to raise awareness, facilitate knowledge sharing, and encourage early diagnosis to save lives,” he emphasized.

Dr. Olushola Fasiku, a Consultant General Surgeon at UITH, also spoke at the event, noting that breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally, with over two million cases recorded annually.

Fasiku reiterated that the disease is not a death sentence and urged men to join women in getting screened.

Dr. Mojirola Fasiku, a Consultant Public Health Physician, added that one in every eight women will develop breast cancer.

She urged stakeholders to offer support to those affected and warned against stigmatizing breast cancer patients, stating, “This disease is not contagious.”