By Grace Damulak
The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, says cancer remains not only a medical condition but a major human challenge affecting individuals, families, and communities.
Dr. Bamlong stated this while addressing journalists in Jos to mark the 2026 World Cancer Day, themed “United by Unique” noting that the theme highlights the fact that every cancer journey is different and calls for people-centred on compassionate, and responsive care.
The Commissioner explained that cancer remains a major public health challenge globally, but is largely preventable and treatable when timely action is taken.
He said the most common cancers recorded in Plateau State health facilities include breast and cervical cancers among women, and prostate cancer among men.
Dr. Bamlong disclosed that between 2023 and 2026, over 31,700 women have been screened for cervical cancer in Plateau State, leading to early detection and timely treatment that has saved many lives.
The Commissioner said the Plateau State Government, has increased community awareness and access to cervical cancer screening services across the state, describing every screening and early detection as a victory against cancer.
In line with the World Health Organisation’s 90-70-90 strategy, Dr. Bamlong said Plateau State is participating in Nigeria’s national Human Papilloma Virus, HPV vaccination rollout.
He expressed concern over findings from a 2024 study in Plateau State which showed very low awareness of the HPV vaccine among young people, explaining that, According to the study, only 26 percent of secondary school students had heard of the HPV vaccine, while just 5 percent demonstrated good knowledge of it.
Dr. Bamlong stressed that although the HPV vaccine is available and free, more efforts are required to improve awareness and called on parents, guardians, schools, and community leaders to ensure eligible girls receive the vaccine to protect them from cervical cancer.
The Commissioner said the Plateau State Ministry of Health is strengthening cancer prevention and control through increased public awareness, community education, expanded screening for breast and cervical cancers, and integration of screening services into routine primary healthcare.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to aligning with global strategies aimed at eliminating cervical cancer, including vaccinating 90 percent of girls aged 9 to 14 years, screening 70 percent of women aged 30 to 45 years, and ensuring that 90 percent of those diagnosed receive appropriate treatment.
Dr. Bamlong also urged the public to adopt healthy lifestyles by avoiding tobacco use, reducing harmful alcohol consumption, maintaining healthy diets, and showing compassion and support for those undergoing cancer treatment.
Edited by Karen Keyen
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