FG to increase number of cancer specialists

The federal government has mapped out strategies to geometrically increase cancer experts in the country, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Tunji Alausa, has disclosed.

Dr Alausa stated this during a one-day workshop on improving access to cancer care in Nigeria organised by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) in partnership with SIEMENS.

He said this would be done through training and re-training of all categories of healthcare professionals, noting that it would help in the country’s preparedness to reduce the incidences of cancer and ensure that those with the illness had access to the best care and support.

He further said the Federal Ministry of Health, through NICRAT, was determined to work with all relevant stakeholders to change the narrative on cancer care in Nigeria through intense awareness creation and improved access to treatment and research.

He noted that this would also chart a way for a new partnership between the ministry and Siemens in order to bring hope for a brighter future without cancer.

The minister disclosed that the estimated number of new cancer cases in Nigeria was 127,763, with 79,542 deaths, and that the numbers were expected to increase by 77 per cent while deaths would double by the year 2050.

The Director General (DG) of NICRAT, Prof Usman Malami Aliyu, said cancer remained a formidable challenge in the country affecting the lives of many Nigerians, adding that, however, the unified approach and strategic collaborations presented the opportunity to make a lasting impact on cancer care and control.

He said the workshop provided a platform for the participants to exchange knowledge, share best practices and forge new alliances that would drive progress in the field of cancer care.

He further said, “Through collaborative initiatives we can leverage the expertise, resources and technology of our partners to facilitate access to high-quality care, promote early detection and enhance the continuum of care for individuals impacted by cancer.

The Head of Public Sector Engagement at Siemens, Dr Kevin Massoudi, hailed Nigeria for modernising cancer centres.