The Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), in partnership with the Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Foundation (OAF), on Tuesday convened a Prostate Cancer Symposium aimed at deepening awareness, strengthening early detection, and improving survival outcomes for men across Nigeria.

The event, held on November 25, 2025, brought together medical experts, advocates, policymakers and community stakeholders to address the rising burden of prostate cancer, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.

In her welcome address, the Founder of BRECAN and former First Lady of Ondo State, Her Excellency Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, said the symposium was organized in honour of her late husband, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, whose life of service and commitment to health advocacy continues to inspire many.

Describing prostate cancer as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among African men, she lamented that silence, stigma, and low awareness remain major barriers to early detection. She stressed that while the disease is highly treatable when identified early, many men present late due to poor health-seeking behaviour and inadequate information.

“This is why we are here today—to confront the silence, change the narrative, and equip families and communities with life-saving knowledge,” she said.

Dr. Akeredolu highlighted the need for a collective and multidisciplinary approach to tackling prostate cancer, noting that the symposium assembled specialists in urology, oncology, pathology, public health, lifestyle medicine and patient navigation, as well as community advocates.

According to her, BRECAN remains committed to ensuring that no Nigerian suffers or dies due to ignorance or lack of access to timely medical care. She described the collaboration with the Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Foundation as a model of the partnerships required to advance men’s health and strengthen cancer prevention efforts.

She urged participants to actively engage, share ideas, and explore opportunities for collaboration as part of efforts to expand early detection initiatives and promote prompt treatment for at-risk men.

“The fight against prostate cancer is not one we can win in silos. It demands unity, commitment and sustained action,” she added.

Dr. Akeredolu reaffirmed the organisations’ shared vision for a healthier Nigeria, expressing hope that the symposium would inspire stronger advocacy, better policies, and improved cancer care infrastructure nationwide.