Following the official statement from the family of late Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo, it has been confirmed that the movie star passed away after a battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
The news has left many fans in shock, especially as the family revealed that “he bore his pain with remarkable strength, unwavering faith, and enduring hope.”
To help you understand the condition that led to the passing of the 40-year-old star, here are important things you should know about advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
1. What is “Metastatic” Kidney Cancer?
When kidney cancer is described as “metastatic,” it means the cancer cells have broken away from the kidney and traveled through the blood or lymphatic system to other parts of the body. In its advanced stage, it often spreads to the lungs, bones, liver, or even the brain. This is why the family referred to it as a “courageous battle,” as the body is fighting the disease in multiple locations at once.
2. It is Often a “Silent” Killer
In many cases, kidney cancer does not show clear symptoms in the early stages. By the time it becomes “advanced” or “metastatic,” it may have been developing for a long time without the person knowing. This explains why public figures often appear healthy until the condition reaches a critical stage.
3. The Sign of Weight Loss
As noted by fans who saw recent videos of Alexx Ekubo and observed he looked leaner, sudden and unexplained weight loss is a major symptom of advanced kidney cancer. The body uses up a lot of energy trying to fight the spreading cells, leading to a significant change in physical appearance.
4. Why Age 40 is Significant
While kidney cancer is more common in older adults, it can strike younger individuals. When it occurs in younger people, it can sometimes be more aggressive. The family’s confirmation that he passed at just 40 years old highlights how devastating this specific type of cancer can be.
5. Resilience and Pain Management
The family noted that Alexx “believed that one day his testimony would be shared with the world.” Advanced kidney cancer can cause significant pain, particularly in the back or sides. Managing this pain while maintaining “unwavering faith” is what the family highlighted as his remarkable show of strength during his final days at Evercare Hospital. “After a brief but courageous battle, Alexx passed away at Evercare Hospital due to complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.”
