…unveils Cancer Institute
By Hassan Zaggi
The former Minister of Health during the Goodluck Jonathan-led administration, Prof. Isaac Adewole, has charged the federal government and stakeholders to put in place framework that will encourage early detection of cancers.
He gave the charge at a formal unveiling of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) in Abuja, on Tuesday.
He, however, lamented the high cost of treating cancer, noting that it is not in sync with the economic condition of majority of Nigerians.
“With data showing that the cost of cancer treatment and management is not in sync with the income of most Nigerians suffering from any type of the disease, the government and other stakeholders must put a framework in place to encourage early diagnosis and access to affordable treatment and management.
“This, it is believed, would prevent late-stage diagnosis as well as help those suffering from the scourge to get proper treatment without them worrying over who pays the bill.”
While lamenting that most Nigerians cancer patients in Nigeria pay out-of-pocket, Prof. Adewole said: “Available records indicate that about 72-80% of cancer patients in Nigeria pay out of pocket for their care; an action not in tandem with reality since many are unable to afford it.
“For instance, breast surgery typically costs around N250,000-an amount far beyond the reach of most patients The economic loss due to cancer in Nigeria was estimated at over $5Billion in 2019.
“While the alarming rate of death from cancer points to the state of medical institutions in Nigeria, it is important for critical stakeholders to understand the danger the disease poses to the future of our country. It is bad enough that cancer is a terminal disease, it is worse when most Nigerian medical centres lack the diagnostic capacity to quickly detect and treat cancer infections.
“That should encourage discussions on how to fashion both preventive and curative solutions at all levels of the society.”
The former Minister, however, raise the need to integrate cancer into all Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programmes.
“It is good the country’s healthcare system is tilting towards UCH with the establishment of the Basic Health Care Provisions Fund (BHCPF) and health insurance schemes under the NHIA at both the national and state levels.
“There is a need to integrate cancer care into all UHC programmes since poor Nigerians cannot pay out of pocket.
“This framework must ensure Nigerians, irrespective of location, get unfettered access to healthcare services for diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer, while the governments expands the Cancer Health Fund and set aside resources from the insurance pool, funding to tackle their challenges.
“Cancer is preventable and treatable during its early stage, and Nigerians deserve this and more.”
Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Health, Engr. Engr. Funso Adebiyi, said that his ministry was excited with the unveiling of the NICRAT.
He assured the full support of the Federal Ministry of Health to the Institute to enable grow to enviable heights.
Represented by the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), Dr Okpako Okpikpi, the Permanent Secretary said: “Of course, we pledge our support, we will always be there for you. NICRAT will get every support that it requires to grow big as they continue.
“We thank groups who were in support of the establishment of NICRAT. They must have worked at the background.”
According to the Permenent Secretary: “This is our day because what joy will the father had, especially on the day of dedication. On this day, we are unveiling our child for the whole world to rejoice with us. Our joy at the federal ministry of health knows no bounds at the unveiling of the NICRAT. It is now a seal deal.
“We are happy. For me, being the National Coordinator of National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), the Institute has come to reduce my work.
“This is because there was a lot of work on me, besides you are giving more visibility to cancer care now, so many of the things that you have to contend with.
“As expert, you will do it better and larger. This is exactly what will happen. “
On his part, the Director General of NICRAT. Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, commended the Federal Government for establishing the Institute, which, according to him, will aimed at improving cancer research and treatment in Nigeria.
He noted that: “Today’s meeting brings together a diverse group of experts, healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, pharmaceutical companies, patient advocates, and many others who have dedicated their lives to combating cancer.
“Your presence here reflects your unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by this disease.
“Today’s agenda provides a unique opportunity to network, establish new partnerships, and strengthen existing relationships.
“The power of collaboration cannot be overstated. By working together, we can leverage our collective expertise, resources, and experiences to accelerate progress and improve awareness and outcomes for cancer patients and their families.”
