The Federal Government has revealed its latest policy initiative designed to provide comprehensive support for cancer survivors, addressing their unique needs and challenges.
Dr. Usman Aliyu, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, shared this information in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.
The new policy is part of a trio of cancer-related policies the Federal Government plans to inaugurate soon. These policies are aimed at bolstering cancer prevention and treatment efforts in Nigeria.
Dr. Aliyu explained that since its establishment in January, the institute has been diligently working on these policies to elevate cancer prevention, treatment, and research to a central position in national healthcare.
He stated, “We have drafted our second National Strategic Cancer Control Plan. The first one for the country spanned from 2018 to 2022 and has now expired. However, I’m pleased to announce that the institute has developed a new comprehensive cancer plan.”
This new five-year plan, which will be in effect from 2023 to 2027, encompasses all aspects of cancer-related activities, spanning cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, palliative care, and, notably, survivorship for the first time.
Dr. Aliyu stressed the importance of this inclusion by saying, “We are introducing this component of cancer survivorship into our plan for survivors, which is an area that has been previously neglected.”
In addition to this, he mentioned that the institute, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, has completed the development of the nation’s first National Cervical Cancer Control plan for 2023-2027. This plan aligns with WHO’s global objective to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030.
The institute’s focus on research is also a pivotal element of its mission. Dr. Aliyu highlighted that research had become a significant component of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment. To ensure focused and meaningful research efforts, they have drafted the first National Cancer Research Agenda for Nigeria, which will be in effect from 2024 to 2028.
These essential documents will be officially unveiled during the 2023 International Cancer Week scheduled from October 23 to 26 in Abuja. The event’s theme, “Addressing Cancer Care Disparities through Research and Improved Access to Treatment,” reflects the global need to bridge disparities in cancer care.
Dr. Aliyu emphasized the significance of this theme, pointing to disparities in cancer care based on factors such as race, ethnicity, and tribal differences. He mentioned that even in regions where substantial resources are invested in cancer prevention, research, and treatment, the desired outcomes have not been achieved, leading to a growing focus on research to understand these challenges.
In 2022, there were almost 19.7 million new cancer cases, resulting in over 10 million cancer-related deaths. Reports suggest that in the coming decades, these numbers could increase by 70 percent, with around 80 percent of these cases emerging from Low and Middle Income Countries, especially Sub Saharan Africa.
Dr. Aliyu’s statements underscore the urgent need to address cancer care disparities, making it a pivotal aspect of the government’s new cancer policies.
