Renowned oncologist, Prof. Ifeoma Okoye, has stated the need for an increase in radiotherapy machines to effectively combat cancer in Nigeria.
According to her, a total of 250 radiotherapy machines are necessary to bridge the treatment gap in the country.
This call comes amidst the backdrop of the government’s efforts to establish six cancer centers across different regions of Nigeria. These centers aim to provide advanced cancer treatment and care to citizens across the nation. However, Okoye highlighted that despite these initiatives, the current infrastructure remains insufficient to meet the needs of Nigeria’s population, which stands at 250 million.
In response to the growing demand for cancer treatment, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), announced plans to collaborate with the private sector to augment the budgetary allocation for cancer care in 2024. He stated the importance of modern radiotherapy machines in the newly established cancer centers, signaling a commitment to enhancing treatment capabilities.
Furthermore, Aliyu revealed plans to establish a national cancer registry, recognizing it as a critical tool for cancer prevention, treatment, and care. He stressed the significance of early detection through screening programs, highlighting the role of preventive oncology centers in providing accessible screening services to the population.
Addressing the challenges in national planning efforts, Aliyu spoke about the need for a comprehensive registry to track cancer occurrences and allocate resources effectively. To support this endeavor, NICRAT is collaborating with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency to train frontline health workers in basic cancer screening techniques at primary health centers nationwide.
As Nigeria intensifies its fight against cancer, experts are advocating for a multi-faceted approach that includes infrastructure development, resource allocation, and public awareness campaigns to combat the disease effectively. With concerted efforts from both the government and the private sector, the country aims to position itself among the leading nations in cancer prevention, treatment, and care.
