Air Force decries rising cases of cancer among serving, retired personnel

The Nigerian Air Force has expressed concerns over the increasing number of retired and serving personnel diagnosed with various forms of cancer.

The Air Force also said families of these personnel as well as their partners were getting infected.

The Chief of Medical Services Headquarters, Air Commodore Olabode Babalola disclosed this on Wednesday at the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association’s Cancer Awareness and screening programme in Abuja.

He lamented that some of these cases were detected late, urging them to place priority on their health.

He said, “From a Service perspective, the medical branch has observed with great concern an increase in the number of serving and retired personnel including spouses who are being diagnosed with various forms of cancer.

“Some of these cases are unfortunately presented to Hospital late by which time treatment would make very little impact.

“This should serve as a wakeup call for all of us to give our health the priority it deserves. Thankfully, with appropriate lifestyle modifications and regular health screening, there is some hope.

“It is pertinent that we give priority to preventive action as early detection is such an important weapon in the fight against cancer.”

The National President of NAFOWA, Elizabeth Amao urged personnel and their families to stay vigilant and take action to reduce the risk factors associated with cancer.

She also encouraged them to start taking charge of their life styles for better health.