Obasanjo Urges Regular Health Screenings to Combat Cancer, Diabetes

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the critical importance of regular medical check-ups and screenings for Nigerians to ensure the early detection and effective management of non-communicable diseases, including cancer and diabetes.

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Most diseases that are not curable are manageable. I have a disease that is not curable, and that is diabetes. I was diagnosed with diabetes more than 40 years ago, and I still manage it.

Obasanjo made these remarks in Abeokuta while participating in the flag-off of the "Lagos to the World Expedition." This initiative, spearheaded by Nigerian entrepreneur Erik Nwagwu, aims to raise awareness about prostate cancer. Nwagwu, who lost his mother and sister to cancer, has dedicated the expedition to their memory and the broader fight against the disease.

During the event, Obasanjo, who rode in a BMW car to perform the flag-off at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, commended Nwagwu for organizing an initiative that benefits humanity. He shared his personal journey managing diabetes, a condition diagnosed over 40 years ago that he describes as incurable but manageable.

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Diet, rest and exercise are very, very important. And then, that’s what I call DREMS, meaning Diet, Rest, Exercise, Medical and Social interactions.

"Diet, rest and exercise are very, very important," Obasanjo stated, outlining his personal regimen which includes playing squash three times a week and careful eating habits. He also stressed the significance of adequate rest and regular medical attention, referring to these as components of DREMS: Diet, Rest, Exercise, Medical, and Social interactions. He particularly advised "senior citizens" aged 60 and above to prioritize medical tests, as early detection can lead to successful treatment.

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Regular medical checks must be prioritised. If tests show early symptoms, they can be treated and dealt with.