A London-based British-Nigerian consultant urological surgeon, Prof. Francis Chinegwundoh, shares insights on his childhood, journey into medicine, and advice on prostate health with BIODUN BUSARI.

Childhood Experience
“My dad moved to the United Kingdom in the 1950s. He and my mum married in London, initially planning to return to Nigeria, but circumstances led them to stay. All four of their children, including me, excelled academically. My parents decided to keep us in the UK rather than disrupt our education by moving back to Nigeria.”

Growing Up Among White Children
“There were no majority-black schools then; most schools were predominantly white with some black and Asian students. We lived in Balham, a mixed suburb in south London. There were Caribbean, West African, Asian, and Pakistani families, so we never felt isolated. London’s diversity helped us blend in comfortably.”

Influence on Medical Career
“I became interested in medicine around age eight or nine, inspired by TV programmes like Emergency Ward 10 and General Hospital. My parents were focused on my academic success rather than steering me toward medicine. The desire to pursue medicine came from me, and they supported my decision.”

Education Journey
“I attended a grammar school, Salesian College in south London, which provided high-quality, free education for academically bright students. Excelling there, I secured entry to St. George’s Medical School, University of London, after strong GCSEs and A-level results, along with a recommendation from my headmaster.”

Choosing Urology as a Specialty
“Becoming a consultant urologist is a long journey. After medical school, rotations in various specialties help one decide on a focus. I chose urology because it treats both men and women, unlike gynaecology, which focuses only on women. The field also offered supportive mentors and diverse surgical challenges.”

Prostate Cancer and Black Men
“Early in my career, I noticed a high incidence of prostate cancer among black men. Research in the UK was lacking, so I conducted studies in the late 1990s, showing black men are twice as likely as white men to develop prostate cancer. Genetics may play a role, but it’s not fully understood. For over 25 years, I’ve worked to raise awareness about early testing and prevention.”

Advice for Men, Especially Nigerians
“Men should get tested for prostate cancer starting at 40, as it often develops without symptoms. Symptoms like slow urinary flow may indicate benign enlargement, not necessarily cancer. Blood tests, specifically the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test, are key for early detection. Family history is crucial—if a father or brother had prostate cancer, the risk doubles or quadruples. Parents should share their medical history with children to encourage early testing.”

Role as a Medical Legal Expert
“As a medical legal expert, I assess injuries from accidents, including personal injuries affecting sexual organs or kidneys, and evaluate claims of clinical negligence. My work involves reviewing records, examining patients, and preparing detailed reports for legal cases.”

Balancing Multiple Roles
“I’ve run a cancer charity, Cancer Black Care, for 26 years, supporting black communities through their cancer journeys. Balancing clinical, academic, legal, and charitable work requires discipline, time management, and a love for what you do. I also integrate technology, including AI, into my work and maintain a paperless system.”

Why Many Nigerian Medical Experts Move to the UK
“The appeal lies in better pay, working conditions, security, education, and infrastructure. The UK provides orderly healthcare systems, free education, and transferable skills. Professionals can work globally without the challenges often faced in Nigeria, such as long hours, power shortages, and limited resources.”

Receiving the MBE
“In 2013, I became a Member of the Order of the British Empire, an award recognising contributions to medicine and the community. It was a proud moment, receiving the medal from Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace. Hard work, focus, and determination are always rewarded, and I encourage youths to remain diligent in their pursuits.”