Ugandans advised to avoid late night meals to lessen cancer risk

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Medical professionals are warning against the dangers of consuming large meals shortly before bedtime.

Dr Juliet Ikiror of Mbale Hospital explained that eating heavily close to sleep disrupts the body’s ability to process food, potentially raising the risk of cancer.

Cancer, according to medics, is the abnormal growth of cells in the body.

Dr Ikiror particularly urged men who often return home late to plan meals earlier, ideally two to three hours before sleeping. 

She advised lighter options, such as fruit or water, instead of heavy meals late at night.

Her remarks were made during a cancer awareness talk at Ngora Township Primary School in Ngora town council following the 2025 Cancer Run, which raised awareness and funds for cancer care.

Among different cancer types, Dr Ikiror highlighted cervical and breast cancer, urging young girls to avoid early sexual activity as it increases cervical cancer risk. 

She also advised women over 50 to undergo routine screenings, particularly when experiencing unusual bleeding.

For men over 40, she recommended regular prostate checks, especially if they experience symptoms such as dripping urine or frequent but incomplete urges to urinate.

Children, she added, are also vulnerable to blood cancers. Parents should consult doctors if their child requires frequent transfusions, rather than assuming it is normal.

To reduce risks, Dr Ikiror stressed the need to avoid the “dot com” eating mentality, binge eating, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. 

Instead, she encouraged balanced diets, regular exercise, and fresh foods rather than processed or refrigerated meals.

She also called for wider acceptance of vaccines, warned against myths surrounding them, and highlighted the dangers of indiscriminate burning of rubbish, which exposes people to harmful smoke.

Rotary Club of Ngora president Godfrey Apusan said the 2025 Cancer Run aimed to fund a cancer treatment centre at Nsambya Hospital and tackle misinformation about the disease. 

He added that next year’s run will involve teachers, market vendors, and boda boda associations, and will be held on a Saturday to accommodate Sunday worshippers.

Ngora RDC Josephine Omara emphasised the importance of sustained awareness campaigns, while Ngora Woman MP Stella Apolot Isodo commended the Rotary Club for promoting community development.

She also recognised winners of the 10km and 20km races and the 5km walk, rewarding them with cash prizes.