Rising Cases of Oral Cancer Alarming, Says Dr. Obinna Ikwuka— OMFS Resident Calls for Action

By Tosin Clegg

As part of the 2021 Annual Health Week organized by the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Owerri chapter, oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) resident doctor and clinical researcher, Dr. Obinna Ikwuka, has raised alarm over the growing incidence of oral cancer across Nigeria. Addressing newsmen during a special symposium held in Owerri, Imo State, Dr. Ikwuka described the situation as a “silent but deadly public health threat that demands urgent attention.”

“We are seeing a troubling spike in oral cancer cases, especially among younger patients and individuals without traditional risk factors. The cancer burden is no longer just about tobacco and alcohol — we are dealing with a much more complex and evolving landscape,” Dr. Ikwuka stated.

He attributed part of the increase to the disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly hampered routine medical and dental services across the country. According to Dr. Ikwuka, the pandemic discouraged patients from seeking early care due to lockdowns, fear of infection, and strained hospital systems.

“Many patients ignored small oral lesions or persistent mouth symptoms during the pandemic, only to present months later when the disease had advanced. Unfortunately, delayed diagnosis often limits treatment options and reduces survival chances,” he said.

Dr. Ikwuka also emphasized the growing role of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, in oropharyngeal cancers, noting that while traditionally associated with cervical cancer, HPV is now increasingly linked to malignancies in the mouth and throat. He called for a national public health response that includes routine HPV vaccination for both males and females.

“We need to shift the narrative around the HPV vaccine. It’s not just a tool for preventing cervical cancer — it’s also a critical strategy in reducing HPV-related oral and throat cancers,” he explained.

He urged the Federal Ministry of Health and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to incorporate the HPV vaccine into Nigeria’s routine immunization schedule, making it freely available to adolescents nationwide. He also appealed for more widespread public education on the link between HPV and oral cancer, especially in schools and local communities.

“There’s a gap in public knowledge that we urgently need to fill. People should know that a simple, safe vaccine could prevent certain types of cancer, including those affecting the oral cavity and throat,” Dr. Ikwuka said.

In addition to vaccination, the OMFS resident stressed the need for increased access to oral cancer screenings, particularly in rural and underserved areas. He proposed incorporating basic oral examinations into routine medical and dental outreach programs, noting that early detection remains the most effective way to reduce oral cancer mortality.

“We cannot afford to treat oral cancer only when it becomes visible or painful. Community health workers and dental professionals should be empowered to detect suspicious lesions early and refer appropriately,” he added.

Dr. Ikwuka concluded by calling on government agencies, professional bodies, NGOs, and the media to unite in tackling what he described as an “emerging epidemic hiding in plain sight.” His remarks were widely applauded by attending medical professionals, many of whom echoed his sentiments and pledged to support efforts aimed at boosting prevention, research, and early intervention in oral cancer cases.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the post-pandemic recovery period, experts like Dr. Ikwuka stress that oral health must not be overlooked in the broader conversation about rebuilding and strengthening the nation’s healthcare system.