The Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria has held a knowledge-sharing session to sensitise young professionals within the industry to cancer and boost overall well-being within the industry.
In a statement on Friday, PenOP said that the two-hour session was aimed at sensitising participants to the risks associated with cervical and prostate cancers and the importance of early detection.
Attendees were encouraged to adopt preventive health practices and undergo regular health screenings.
The session was facilitated by a medical expert, Dr. Oluwatimilehin Adeyanju, simply identified as the one who provided practical insights into the causes, prevention, and early detection of cancer. He began by explaining the basic differences between malignant and benign tumours, stressing the importance of regular checkups and prioritising personal health, particularly among working professionals.
Focusing on cervical cancer, Dr. Adeyanju noted that it is the second most common cancer in women globally and is primarily caused by high-risk HPV infections. He encouraged preventive measures such as HPV vaccination for children aged 8–14, regular Pap smears, safe sex practices, and healthy lifestyle habits.
On prostate cancer, he explained that although the disease often progresses slowly, it can be life-threatening if not detected early, highlighting key risk factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle, and recommended that men undergo regular Prostate-Specific Antigen tests, conduct digital rectal exams from age 40 or earlier if at high risk.
The session also addressed common myths, including the belief that frequent sexual activity prevents prostate cancer. Dr. Adeyanju clarified that while some natural remedies can support general wellness, they should not replace proper medical care.
The session ended with a Q&A segment, where participants raised concerns on cancer prevention, genetic predisposition, and treatment options, and a strong message on the importance of recognising risk factors, taking proactive steps, and prioritising preventive healthcare.
PenOp is the umbrella body for all Pension Fund Administrators and Pension Fund Custodians in Nigeria.
