The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, emphasized that cancer is no longer a death sentence, citing advancements in technology that enhance treatment and care for patients.
He made this statement during the opening ceremony of the 2024 International Cancer Week (ICW) in Abuja, themed “Accelerating Nigeria’s Path to Comprehensive Cancer Control: Innovation, Access, and Partnership.”
Pate highlighted that due to genomics and innovations in precision medicine, more cancers are becoming curable. However, he acknowledged that cancer is the fastest-growing Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) in Nigeria, stressing the urgency of addressing the issue. He stated, “We don’t have the luxury of waiting until more people have cancer to deal with it. We don’t have the resources, the infrastructure, and the equipment.” He called for a focus on prevention, screening, treatment, rehabilitation, and research during the Cancer Week.
The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming cancer care based on sound science and research. He mentioned that President Bola Tinubu approved the establishment of six major cancer infrastructure and equipment to ease the burden on patients, with two set to be commissioned by May 2025.
Pate urged Nigerians to prioritize regular screenings to prevent cancer. The event also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) and Roche Products Limited regarding the “Nigeria Breast Cancer Ambition.”
Dr. Ladi Hameed, General Manager of Roche, discussed the MoU, stating it would enhance diagnostic capabilities. By the end of 2025, six centers with immunohistochemistry diagnostic tools will allow for tailored treatments for specific cancer types, moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches to cancer treatment. Genomic testing will provide patients with precise information about their cancer type and appropriate treatment options.
CREDIT: Allneeds, THE NATION
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