The Chief Medical Director of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH), Amaku, Dr. Joe Akabuike, has called for increased early screening for cervical cancer and greater attention to the rising cases of kidney failure among young people, particularly women aged 18 to 30 years. He made this known during his paper presentation at the recent university of Nigeria alumni forum held in Awka.

Dr. Akabuike noted that early check and regular screening for cervical cancer remain critical in reducing preventable deaths, stressing that many cases are detected too late due to poor health-seeking behaviour. He also expressed concern over the growing incidence of kidney failure among young men and women, describing the trend as alarming and linked to lifestyle factors, late medical presentation and inadequate routine health checks.

He urged young people to adopt preventive healthcare measures, including regular medical examinations, healthier lifestyles and prompt consultation with qualified health professionals. According to him, early detection and timely intervention are key to saving lives and reducing the burden of these diseases on families and the healthcare system.