On May 15th, 2025, we took bladder cancer awareness to the heart of Abuja at Millennium Park, hosting an outdoor interactive session to educate the public about this often-overlooked disease. The message was clear:
“If you see any sign, Checkam!”
Despite being the 9th most common cancer globally, bladder cancer remains widely unknown in Nigeria. Almost everyone we spoke to said the same thing:
“We know cancer, but we’ve never heard of bladder cancer.”
This lack of awareness is alarming because early detection saves lives.
Why Bladder Cancer Awareness Matters
- Over 610,000+ new cases are diagnosed globally each year.
- 1.9 million people are currently living with bladder cancer.
- It is the 13th leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.
In Nigeria, late detection due to limited knowledge and stigma leads to high mortality rates. Yet, when caught early, the survival rate can be as high as 90%.
Signs You Should Never Ignore
- Blood in urine (hematuria) – The most common warning sign.
- Frequent or painful urination – Especially without infection.
- Lower back or pelvic pain – Persistent discomfort.
- Urgency without relief – Feeling the need to urinate without results.
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Early action can make all the difference.
Our Interactive Session
We engaged attendees through:
✔ Informative talks – Breaking down myths and facts.
✔ Q&A sessions – Addressing concerns about symptoms and treatment.
✔ Personal stories – Survivors shared their journeys to inspire hope.
The turnout was incredible, and the conversations were enlightening. Many left with a newfound understanding of bladder cancer and the confidence to take charge of their health.