Nigerian Influencer Shares 5 Daily Habits That Could Help Prevent Cancer
Veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, is battling stage-four cancer, the latest in a string of high-profile cancer diagnoses among Nigerians. Just this week, news broke that Ogogo is fighting the disease, bringing fresh attention to cancer and its impact on the country.
Cancer Prevention in Nigeria: A Growing Concern
Cancer is becoming a growing concern for many Nigerians, with several public figures battling the disease. Veteran actress Ethel Ekpe died in 2024 after battling cancer, while actress Stella Ikwuegbu also died that year following a battle with leg cancer. More recently, Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo died in May 2026 at 40 after complications from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
A Nigerian internet influencer, Ebuka (@plantboy.ng), has shared five "common-sense" habits he believes could help people reduce their cancer risk. While some of his suggestions need to be treated cautiously, evidence-backed cancer prevention includes avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, exercising, and getting recommended vaccinations.
Sachet Water and Cancer Prevention
Ebuka's first suggestion was about sachet water, popularly called "pure water" in Nigeria. He said that Nigerians who can afford it should consider moving away from sachet water because of concerns about the plastic packaging and possible exposure to microplastics. The World Health Organization has confirmed that microplastics have been detected in drinking water, but there is currently insufficient evidence to establish that the levels found in drinking water pose a significant health risk.
Moderation in Beauty and Perfume Use
Ebuka also suggested being selective about what you put on your body and cutting down on perfumes and using them moderately. While there is no established evidence that simply wearing several perfumes causes cancer, moderation is still a reasonable principle. If a fragrance irritates your skin or causes breathing problems, stop using it and consider speaking with a healthcare professional.
The Importance of Nature in Cancer Prevention
Ebuka's fourth suggestion was perhaps the least controversial: spending more time around nature. He encouraged Nigerians to have a small garden, grow plants on their balconies, or simply find ways to incorporate greenery into their everyday surroundings. While gardening itself should not be sold as a way to prevent cancer, staying physically active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important.
Cancer Prevention is a Collective Effort
The biggest takeaway from Ebuka's video is that cancer prevention is bigger than sachet water, perfume, or skincare products. According to the World Health Organization and the International Agency for Research on Cancer, about 37% of new cancer cases globally in 2022 were linked to preventable causes. Tobacco was the biggest preventable cause, followed by infections and alcohol. Cancer prevention is a collective effort that requires a holistic approach, including avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, exercising, and getting recommended vaccinations.
As Nigerians continue to grapple with the reality of cancer, it is essential to prioritize evidence-backed prevention strategies. While Ebuka's suggestions may not be entirely supported by science, they do highlight the importance of making informed choices about our health and well-being. By adopting healthy habits and avoiding preventable causes of cancer, Nigerians can reduce their risk of developing the disease and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Source: Pulse.ng
