WHO report on processed meat causing cancer: Nigerians react

The World Health Organization released a report recently, claiming that research has shown that consumption of processed meat like sausages, etc. could lead to cancer. Processed meats – such as bacon, sausages and ham – do cause cancer, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The report said 50g of processed meat a day, increased […]

The World Health Organization released a report recently, claiming that research has shown that consumption of processed meat like sausages, etc. could lead to cancer. Processed meats – such as bacon, sausages and ham – do cause cancer, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The report said 50g of processed meat a day, increased the chance of developing colorectal cancer by 18%. It also said red meats were “probably carcinogenic” but there was limited evidence and stressed that meat also had health benefits. Processed meat is that which has been modified to either extend its shelf life or change the taste and the main methods are smoking, curing, or adding salt or preservatives. Simply putting beef through a mincer does not mean the resulting mince is “processed” unless it is modified further, experts clarified. Daily Trust asked some Nigerians what they think about the report and whether it will affect their love for local delicacies. 

Amao Ibukunola, Public Relations Officer:
From what I have read in different health articles, there is no actual thing that causes cancer. Some say it is processed food, too much exposure to radiation, genes, inhaling chemicals, alcohol, smoking, etc. All of these things can put fear in the minds of people because we partake in these things one way or the other. But if we are to place our minds on them and welcome fear, then we probably won’t eat, drive, visit hospitals, and work because some people work where they get exposed to one chemical or the other. Our parents of old have always fed on red meat. For example, from what I was told,  Kilishi has been in existence for a very long time. I personally love meat and I won’t stop eating it. But I will now mind the quantity I consume.

Gregory Omoearah, Teacher:
When it comes to the World Health Organisation and their issues, everything is bad. What are we supposed to eat? It is a known fact that too much of everything is bad. I remember when the issue of Ebola came up, they insisted that people stay clear of bush meat. Some did while many turned deaf ears and nothing has happened to them. Now they have come with this one again. I don’t think Nigerians will stop consuming processed red meat. I personally love Suya and Kilishi. In fact, any time I am visiting the North, I ensure I buy it. I think one’s mindset works with the body, so if you think consuming red meat would harm you, then it probably will. I still stand on individuals having moderation of whatever they eat and not overdoing it.

Mike Oviasogie, Journalist:
There are many ways which one can get cancer. Now it is the issue of processed meat, like Suya and Kilishi, which is very popular in Nigeria. Most Nigerians are aware about the recent assertion by WHO, but I know more than 50% will still be stiff-necked, and even tell you “disease no dey kill African man”.
But we all should be conversant with this issue and consider the intake of these delicacies. If one can’t quit, at least reduce intake. I know of some persons that can’t live a day without eating Suya. We should be more careful, because apart from processed meat, there are other products, especially canned foods, which can also cause cancer.

Baba Ali, Suya Seller:
I am yet to hear that processed red meat causes cancer. What I know is that once it passes through fire and the heat gets into it, whatever disease that might be in it will die.

Samuel Ibrahim, Suya Seller:
I sell Suya, but buy Kilishi because I love it so much that I can’t even think of how it could possibly cause cancer. Sometimes, these people (WHO) just come up with certain theories to deceive people. Anyway, as I make Suya for those who enjoy it, I will still eat my Kilishi and also buy for my family, because they love it as well.