As nations around the globe observed World Cancer Day, the spotlight turned to Nigeria, where the exorbitant cost of cancer treatment emerged as a formidable barrier, exacerbating the country’s cancer crisis amid widespread poverty. Annually, Nigeria sees 124,815 new cancer diagnoses, with a dire outcome of 78,899 deaths, attributed largely to the inaccessibility of adequate care and the prohibitive costs of treatment.
In a country where over 80 million individuals live on less than $2.15 (about N3,000) daily, the financial burden of cancer treatment, which may range from N10 million to N30 million for a cure, is an insurmountable hurdle for many. This financial challenge starkly contrasts with the potential for prevention and early detection, which could prevent over 40% of cancers, including those caused by viruses like the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B and C, and significantly increase cure rates.
The theme for World Cancer Day 2024, “Close the Care Gap,” emphasizes the global need to address disparities in cancer care. This call to action seeks to rally leaders worldwide to prioritize cancer in their agendas, innovate strategies to combat inequity and invest in resources to achieve a just and cancer-free world. It underscores the necessity of eliminating health disparities by ensuring universal access to quality health services tailored to individuals’ needs.
The Nigerian government, through the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and the newly unveiled National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), is taking strides towards enhancing the nation’s cancer care infrastructure. However, the journey towards universal, affordable cancer treatment is fraught with challenges, including the need for comprehensive health insurance coverage that includes cancer care. Recent adjustments by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) have made strides in covering some levels of cancer treatment, yet much remains to be done.
According to a report by The Guardian, experts like Prof. Isaac Adewole, a consultant to NCCP/NICRAT and a prominent figure in cancer advocacy, provide alarming statistics that underscore the urgency of the situation. With breast, cervical, prostate, and liver cancers leading the charge, the need for a robust response to cancer care in Nigeria has never been more critical.
As Nigeria grapples with this growing health crisis, the call for action on World Cancer Day serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to bridge the gap in cancer care. The federal and state governments, alongside international partners, must unite to implement effective policies, raise awareness, and invest in research and infrastructure that will enable Nigerians to access the life-saving treatment they desperately need. The path to a cancer-free Nigeria demands innovation, commitment, and the courage to confront and overcome the barriers that stand in the way of progress.
