Deborah Ikechukwu: We need more health conversations beyond survival

One area I struggle with is writing a killer introduction that not only hooks the audience but takes them all through the entire write-up. But it is not that serious. My go-to hack has been to be real and human. While I was thinking of how to do this, it occurred to me that the best way to get past this was to allow my weaknesses and vulnerabilities show. 

Now, this write-up is not about me; it is about Deborah Ikechukwu, an exceptional health content writer and strategist. She strongly believes that learning should be practical, easy to understand, like you are explaining to a five-year-old and relatable. She was the perfect feature as we mark Breast Cancer awareness in October.

In her own sphere, she is shaping the narratives when it comes to health education. She never underestimated the power of a single health story, which, when communicated, can have a lasting impact. From a life experience, Deborah drew strength. Having lost a loved one to breast cancer, she had two options: to wallow in grief and pain or use the life experience to save lives. And what did she do? She chose the latter. 

Here is Deborah, who has carved a niche in the health communications space, not just writing to create awareness but sharing useful information so people can make informed decisions to stay healthy. It was exciting as she let Omote Ro Dhe into her world, preaching the message of healing, comfort and empowerment. Read excerpts below:

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what drew you to health storytelling?

I’m a nursing student who believes health conversations should not be lectures.

What drew me to health storytelling was realising how much impact a single story can have.

I’ve seen people understand complex health topics just because they were told in a simple, emotional way. Turning medical facts into real-life stories people can relate to is what keeps me here.

What personal experiences have shaped the way you communicate about health?

Losing a relative to breast cancer changed how I see health entirely. It taught me that awareness isn’t enough but that understanding is what saves lives.

The experience made me want to communicate health in a way that sticks.

So when I write, I make it personal, relatable, and hopeful, and this is because I’ve seen what happens when information doesn’t reach people on time.

As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, what key messages do you believe are still missing from public conversations?

What’s missing is the emotional and human side of breast cancer conversations.

We rarely talk about how fear, shame, or cultural beliefs make many people, especially women in low-resource settings, delay seeking help.

Another message that’s often missing is that men can get breast cancer too. Many people still think it’s a woman’s disease, and that misconception can literally cost lives.

I also think we need more conversations that go beyond survival; we should talk about life after treatment, the emotional recovery, and the need for community support. This is because breast cancer doesn’t just change the body; it changes how people see themselves.

What are some common myths about breast cancer you wish more people understood?

One of the biggest myths I wish more people understood is that men can get breast cancer. It’s rare, but it happens.

Many men ignore early signs because they think it’s a woman’s disease, and that delay often makes diagnosis come late.

Another common myth is that a lump is the only sign of breast cancer, that’s not true. Changes in breast shape, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, or even persistent pain can all be warning signs.

There’s also the myth that only people with a family history can develop it. While genetics play a role, lifestyle and environmental factors can also increase risk.

What lifestyle or behavioural habits would you recommend for lowering breast cancer risk and supporting overall wellbeing?

Staying Active: Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Eating Smart: Filling your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Also limiting red and processed meats.

Limit Alcohol: Even small amounts can increase risk.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese increases risk, particularly after menopause.

Don't Smoke: Smoking is linked to several cancers, including breast cancer.

One book that changed your perspective?

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Your go-to mantra on tough days?

Keep Showing Up

If you could mentor your younger self, what would you say?

I’d tell her that her voice is valid

That her curiosity is not a weakness

That it’s okay to start small, what matters is that she starts.

I’d remind her that passion for health and storytelling can coexist beautifully, and that one day, those two things will open doors she never imagined.

How do you hope your work will inspire the next generation of health communicators?

I hope they see that health writing isn’t about cold facts but about connection.

That words can heal, comfort, and empower.

I want the next generation to blend empathy with evidence, to tell stories that don’t just inform but move people to care.