A food scientist, Idara Emmanuel Okon, has linked the growing number of cancer cases in Nigeria to unhealthy eating habits, cautioning Nigerians against indiscriminate consumption of food and drinks.
Speaking at the 2026 graduation ceremony of Batch ‘A’ students of IDYJAY Kitchen Culinary School in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Okon warned that many cancer-related conditions are triggered or worsened by poor dietary choices.
She stressed that what individuals consume daily plays a critical role in determining their health outcomes, urging the public to be more deliberate about what they eat and drink.
According to her, increasing reports of cancers affecting different parts of the body are closely tied to harmful consumption patterns, noting that unwholesome foods and drinks could significantly damage the body system.
Okon explained that while many people perceive healthy eating as expensive, the cost of managing illnesses linked to poor nutrition is far higher.
She maintained that adopting healthier diets could help reduce avoidable health complications and ease the burden of medical expenses.
The food expert, who also heads the culinary school, said the institution was established not only to promote entrepreneurship but also to encourage the preparation and consumption of safe and nutritious meals.
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She added that students are trained in food safety, quality control, and hygiene standards to ensure they contribute positively to public health and the food industry.
