Nigerians have been urged not to ignore blood in their stool, as colorectal cancer continues to claim thousands of lives yearly.
The warning was reiterated on World Cancer Day 2025 during the premiere of Blood in My Stool, a documentary film produced by Project PINK BLUE – Health & Psychological Trust Centre in collaboration with the Global Colorectal Cancer Association.
The film, which debuted in Abuja, sheds light on the alarming rise of colorectal cancer in Nigeria, survivor stories, and the urgent need for early detection.
Speaking at the event, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, who was represented by Muhammad Abdullahi, Chief of Staff to the Minister, emphasized the importance of health consciousness among young people.
“To the young people in this room, I want you to be health champions in your communities, do not ignore any blood in your stool. Research has shown that rectal bleeding is a symptom of colon cancer. Eat organic, limit alcohol, and embrace a healthy lifestyle. Smoking alone has been linked to 16 different types of cancer,” Olawande warned.
According to Runcie C.W. Chidebe, Executive Director of Project PINK BLUE, says colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nigeria. He revealed that in 2022, 8,114 Nigerians were diagnosed with the disease, and 5,912 lost their lives—a staggering mortality rate of over 70%.
“These deaths are not just numbers; they are fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters who could have been saved with early detection and treatment,” Chidebe stated.
He lamented that colorectal cancer remains neglected in awareness campaigns, overshadowed by breast, cervical, and prostate cancers. Blood in My Stool aims to change that narrative by bringing the disease into national consciousness.
Mrs. Yemisi Daodu, a colorectal cancer survivor featured in the documentary, shared her personal experience.
“In my case, I started seeing blood in my stool and immediately went to the hospital. The early diagnosis saved my life. But I had to travel abroad for treatment. With over 40% of Nigerians living in poverty, how many can afford such care? This is why I tell my story—to highlight the inequities in our healthcare system and push for patient-centered care,” Daodu said.
The film premiere was not just about raising awareness but also a rallying call for better policies, increased funding, and equitable cancer care.
“As we watch Blood in My Stool, let it be a wake-up call,” Minister Olawande urged. “We must do more to fight colon cancer and improve youth health in Nigeria.”
Project PINK BLUE is a leading cancer organization in Nigeria focused on early detection, awareness, free screenings, and improving access to cancer care.
The Global Colorectal Cancer Association is dedicated to raising awareness, supporting patients, and advancing global efforts to combat colorectal cancer through education, research, and advocacy.
