Posted on: Wed 05-02-2025

Association of Radiation and Clinical Oncologists of Nigeria (ARCON) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving cancer care in Nigeria, as countries mark World Cancer Day.  

The group urged the government to invest in oncology infrastructure and workforce development and appealed to the private sector to support innovative cancer care solutions through partnerships and funding.

The National President of ARCON, Dr Nwamaka Lasebikan, who made the call, yesterday, in Abuja, observed that cancer remained a growing public health challenge in Nigeria, with an estimated over120,000 new cases yearly and a high rate of late-stage diagnoses.

Lasebikan highlighted the reasons to include limited awareness and screening opportunities, leading to delayed diagnosis, gaps in treatment infrastructure, with only 10 facilities offering radiotherapy nationwide; the high cost of cancer care, which places an enormous financial burden on patients and their families and the alarming shortage of trained oncology professionals, making timely and specialised care harder to access

She said: “At ARCON, we recognise that cancer is not just a health issue, it is a societal challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities in profound ways. Each patient’s experience is unique, and shaped by personal, cultural and economic factors. Yet, through collaboration, expertise and innovation, we can unite to improve early detection, treatment accessibility and survival outcomes. This year’s theme, “United by Unique,” reminds us that while every cancer journey is personal, our collective efforts can lead to meaningful change”.

According to Lasebikan, despite challenges, there is hope. Nigeria’s oncology landscape is evolving and ARCON and critical stakeholders are driving innovative solutions that enhance cancer care delivery across the country by expanding early detection and awareness. He advocated nationwide cancer screening programmes to promote early diagnosis, strengthening community education on preventive measures and risk factors and enhancing access to quality treatment, among others.

She noted that the association would support policies that increase investment in radiotherapy centres and oncology units, encourage public-private partnerships to make advanced treatments more widely available, and promote the adoption of innovative technologies to improve treatment accuracy and effectiveness.

SOURCE: GUARDIAN NEWSPAPER

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