Experts warn that excessive consumption of ponmo, assorted meat increases risk of colon cancer

Experts have identified delicacies like ponmo, assorted meat and smoked fish as risk factors for colon cancer if consumed in excess

Experts say Nigerians should caution their excessive consumption of Ponmo which is a major delicacy in the country

Experts have identified excessive consumption of ponmo, assorted meat and smoked fish as risk factors for colorectal cancer (colon cancer).

According to Dr. Adedapo Osinowo consumers of ponmo, shaki, ifun, abodi, roundabout, and other forms of orisi-risi (assorted) meat parts including smoked fish should caution their consumption of the delicacies.

In a report by Vanguard, Osinawo who is also the Chief Medical Personnel, Niola Cancer Care Foundation noted that colorectal cancer has been identified as a major cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world.

He argued that research from experts has shown that there is a link between consumption of these meat parts and increased risk of colon cancer. He added that colon cancer is the fourth most common cause of death affecting men and women all over the world.

He said: “All fatty meals should be eaten in moderation but if you eat these assorted meats every day, I am sad for you. You can eat them but not every day. Abodi and shaki. Ponmo is a risk factor for cancer too.

“These parts are risk factors for cancer because of the way they are prepared, they tend to produce harmful substances that can cause cancer. Their preparation is responsible for this. What is important is to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables to increase antioxidants in the body.”

Osinowo further warned Nigerians against the consumption of smoked fish, noting that the toxic substance produced by the smoke is a problem.

He however listed other risk factors for colon cancer to include; increase in age, family history, diets lacking fruits and vegetables, obesity, alcohol, sedimentary life style among others.

He also warned Nigerians not to trivialise blood in their stool, urging everyone to monitor their stools, and to seek help if they cannot pass stool normally without using purgatives.

“When you feel the urge of passing stool and nothing is coming out you have to check it and find out if there is any tumour there.” Osinowo said colon cancer can be prevented if it is picked at the polyps stage,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has mandated the National Institute for Medical Research and the College of Medicine, Ibadan to do proper study of the two claims to HIV cure in the country.

This mandate was as a result of the statement by Nigerian university professor, Francis Otunta of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture who insisted that a drug for the treatment and cure of HIV/AIDS has been discovered in Nigeria.

However, in the video below, an online campaign raises awareness about cancer in Nigeria.