The Federal Government has urged health stakeholders to focus on strategies for preventing and reducing cancer, stressing the need to tackle this growing health issue. During the International World Cancer Week (ICW) event in Abuja, Professor Muhammad Pate Ali, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, emphasised the situation’s urgency. The event was organised by the Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS) in partnership with the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) and several other collaborators, aiming to enhance cancer management initiatives across the country.
During the event, Prof. Pate explained that cancer, along with other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), represents one of the country’s rising health issues. He noted that a segment of the disease profile is increasingly contributing to morbidity and mortality. As it grows, he underscored that proactive measures are essential to reduce this burden and urged collaboration among public and private sectors to combat this health crisis. He additionally urged the National Assembly to prioritise ongoing funding for healthcare facilities and personnel while proposing the creation of a specialised fund for catastrophic events. According to him, this fund would assist individuals facing the economic burden of its treatment.
2024 ICW aims to lead Nigeria toward efficient and comprehensive care.
Professor Usman Malami Aliyu, the Director General of NICRAT, emphasised the importance of the ICW platform, indicating that this year’s event is designed to drive Nigeria towards a future characterised by more efficient and comprehensive management of the disease. Themed “Accelerating Nigeria’s Path to Comprehensive Cancer Control: Innovation, Access, and Partnership,” the conference emphasised a threefold approach to its management, which includes focusing on innovative treatment options, expanding access to care, and promoting meaningful partnerships. Aliyu affirmed that this theme reflects NICRAT’s commitment to modernising its care Infrastructure and supporting survivors in their post-treatment journey.
Furthermore, the institute seeks to encourage the use of innovative technologies, provide comprehensive Education for medical practitioners, and enhance treatment alternatives to accommodate the increasing population impacted by the illnesses. A major result of the event was the establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) involving the Federal Ministry of Health, NICRAT, and the international pharmaceutical firm Roche. This MOU sets forth a common objective to enhance breast survival rates nationwide, aiming to achieve results comparable to those in more developed countries.
Nigeria recorded 32,000 new cases nationwide only in 2022.
Dr. Ladi Hameed, who serves as General Manager at Roche Products Limited, presented concerning data, pointing out that breast is the most common type of disease affecting women in Nigeria, with 32,000 new cases documented in 2022. He emphasised that this partnership aims to enhance survival rates, transforming the current reality of “1 in 2” patients lost to the disease to hopeful “4 in 5” patients living beyond five years. Moving forward, efforts to enhance its outcomes have not been recent in the region. Over the years, Nigeria has launched various preventive strategies targeting declining illnesses cases among women.
Also, the government has backed multiple programs focusing on raising awareness and promoting early diagnosis, especially concerning breast and cervical. The Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program has been implemented in multiple areas to enhance the availability of early detection resources. Furthermore, collaborations with global health entities like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the African Union have offered assistance through awareness initiatives and specialised knowledge, strengthening local care capabilities. Immunisation initiatives have emerged as a fundamental aspect of prevention efforts in the nation, particularly regarding cervical.
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Lastly, the introduction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in various regions seeks to lower the risk of cervical, one of the most easily preventable affecting women. Moreover, strides have been made to distribute its care centres widely, with dedicated facilities established in many states. The combination of these initiatives, along with newly formed collaborations and technological advancements, showcases the region’s dedication to reducing the impact of the disease. By leveraging government assistance, global collaborations, and local innovation, Nigeria is progressing toward a future where its diagnosis is not a life-altering judgment. This year’s ICW event embodies a broader perspective, bringing together various participants in a collective effort that impacts countless individuals.