As Nigeria joins the global community in observing World Cancer Day, the country is grappling with a dire shortage of oncologists amid a sharp rise in cancer cases. With cancer now a leading cause of premature death, the need for immediate action to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient care has never been greater.
Despite medical advancements, the number of cancer patients in Nigeria continues to grow at an alarming rate. The situation is further compounded by a concerning brain drain in the healthcare sector. According to ASO publications, Nigeria’s clinical oncology workforce has dwindled significantly, with trained specialists leaving for better opportunities abroad. This has left the country with a staggering patient-to-oncologist ratio of nearly 2,000 to 1, making access to quality cancer care increasingly difficult.
A recent study published in December 2024 revealed that 28% of Nigerians are directly affected by cancer, either personally or through a family member. This alarming statistic underscores the widespread impact of the disease and highlights the urgent need for enhanced cancer education, prevention, and treatment strategies. However, awareness levels remain low. Research indicates that only 27% of Nigerians recognize lump growths as a potential warning sign, while other symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, swelling, and fatigue remain largely overlooked.
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Public calls for government intervention have grown louder, with many advocating for free medical check-ups, affordable cancer medications, and the establishment of more cancer screening centers across the country. The demand for accessible and cost-effective cancer care is at an all-time high, as Nigeria continues to witness an alarming increase in new cases and fatalities.
In terms of cancer incidence, Nigeria ranks second in Africa, trailing only behind Egypt. As of April 2022, Nigeria recorded approximately 124,815 new cancer cases and 108,168 deaths. The disease claims over 72,000 lives annually, with breast cancer (27%), cervical cancer (14%), liver cancer (12%), and prostate cancer (12%) being the most prevalent. Mortality rates follow a similar pattern, with breast cancer accounting for 20% of deaths, liver cancer 16%, and prostate cancer 13%. These figures highlight the urgent need for improved cancer treatment and preventive measures.
The World Health Organization’s regional office in Africa has identified several risk factors fueling Nigeria’s cancer crisis, including unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, and excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption. The World Cancer Research Fund further notes that key challenges include the high cost of oncology treatments, poor public awareness, and a severe shortage of healthcare professionals. These challenges have placed an enormous burden on the country’s healthcare system, leaving many cancer patients with little to no access to proper medical care.
In response to this crisis, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has pledged to enhance cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment across Nigeria. The government’s National Cancer Control Plan aims to improve access to screening services and provide better support for patients and survivors. However, experts argue that these efforts must be matched with stronger policies to train and retain oncologists, as well as significant investments in medical infrastructure.
The deteriorating conditions of healthcare facilities remain a pressing concern. Recently, students at the University of Ibadan staged a protest over the worsening state of their teaching hospital, one of the best in the country. Their demonstration highlighted the severe lack of equipment and resources for cancer treatment, further emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention.
Without immediate and strategic action, Nigeria risks facing an even greater public health crisis. The call for more oncologists, better infrastructure, and accessible cancer treatment is louder than ever. The future of cancer care in Nigeria depends on bold policy changes and a commitment to saving lives.
