The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment’s Director General, Prof Usman Aliyu, revealed on Saturday that Nigeria records over 120,000 new cancer cases annually.
In 2020, an alarming 78,000 Nigerians succumbed to cancer-related complications, with 44,699 being females and 34,200 males.
Speaking at the seventh annual conference of the Association of Nigeria Health Journalists in collaboration with the World Health Organisation in Nasarawa State, Aliyu, represented by Hassan Zaggi, emphasized the need for concerted efforts to combat the growing cancer crisis in Nigeria.
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He outlined the grim statistics and pledged the institute’s commitment to disrupting cancer through heightened awareness campaigns and enhanced access to treatment and research.
Aliyu disclosed strategic initiatives aimed at significantly increasing the number of cancer experts in the country through comprehensive training programs.
In a bid to ensure top-notch care and support for cancer patients, the institute recently launched three crucial documents: the National Strategic Cancer Control Plan 2023-2027, the National Cancer Research Agenda 2024-2027, and the National Strategic Plan for Prevention of Cancer of Uterine Cervix 2023-2027.
These documents, he explained, prioritize areas such as governance, prevention, supply chain management, data and research, and surveillance, aligning with the Ministry of Health’s goal to enhance the overall health of Nigerians.
Aliyu commended the government for relocating the Cancer Trust Fund from the Federal Ministry of Health to NICRAT, underscoring the importance of media support and collaboration with NGOs in the fight against cancer.
He urged Nigerians to prioritize their health by undergoing regular check-ups and seeking medical attention for any unusual bodily sensations.
Stressing the significance of early detection, Aliyu expressed optimism that with collective efforts, cancer could be disrupted, defeated, and ultimately eradicated in Nigeria.
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