Synergising against cancer
By Abiemwense Moru, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
On Feb. 4, the World Cancer Day was commemorated to keep the cancer awareness in traction.
The celebration brought together key figures from the health and advocacy sectors to reaffirm their collective responsibility in the battle against cancer, underscoring the importance of unity, awareness and collaboration.
The theme for 2025 World Cancer Day, “United by Unique”, emphasises the need for inclusivity and a multi-faceted approach to combat the global health crisis that cancer represents.
According to the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the theme recognises that every experience with cancer is unique and everyone has unique needs, unique perspectives and a unique story to tell.
“Yet, people touched by cancer are united in a shared ambition to see governments implement policies to improve cancer prevention and deliver health systems which treat people with cancer effectively and successfully, resulting in more people surviving their cancer and leading long and healthier lives.’’
Worthy of note, data from the World Health Organisation(WHO), indicates that cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, or nearly one in six deaths.
In Nigeria, the World Cancer Day was given the deserved attention.
Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who spoke at an event hosted by the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Administration to leaving no one behind in the fight against cancer.
She said that there was a need for a strong resolve to improve cancer care, including the crucial components of awareness, prevention and treatment.
Mahmoud emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships to enhance cancer awareness and build capacity for early detection and prevention.
She noted that the FCT Administration had been investing in healthcare infrastructure to improve access to quality medical services for residents, with a particular focus on cancer prevention and treatment.
“We understand that tackling cancer requires collective efforts.
“This is why the FCT Administration is committed to forging strategic partnerships with institutions like NICRAT to improve access to screening and treatment services,” Mahmoud said.
The minister commended NICRAT for its ongoing work in advancing cancer treatment, research and public education.
She also said that such collaborations were critical in addressing cancer and improving health outcomes for all.
Prof. Usman Aliyu, Director-General of NICRAT, also stressed the importance of collaboration in the fight against cancer.
He explained that World Cancer Day is not just an occasion to raise awareness but also to foster actionable partnerships that would ultimately reduce cancer’s global burden.
“The institute has been actively involved in training cancer specialists, conducting research, and implementing preventive measures both locally and internationally.”
Aliyu restated NICRAT’s commitment to aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritised healthcare reforms and the improvement of cancer care in Nigeria.
“World Cancer Day is a powerful reminder that collective action can save lives.
“It is a call to strengthen global collaborations to ensure no one is left behind in cancer care, regardless of their background or location,” he said.
Experts regret that while much attention is given to breast, prostate, and cervical cancers, colorectal cancer remains a largely overlooked issue in Nigeria.
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum; these cancers can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start.
Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common.
Project Pink Blue (PPB), a leading cancer advocacy group, made clarifications at a documentary screening titled Blood in My Stool, which coincided with the World Cancer Day event.
Mr Runcie Chidebe, Executive Director, PPB, urged the government and other stakeholders to amplify efforts to raise awareness about colorectal cancer.
He said that available statistics showed that colorectal cancer was the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nigeria.
“With more than 8,000 new cases reported in 2022, the mortality rate for colorectal cancer is alarmingly high, with 70 per cent of patients succumbing to the disease,” he said.
Chidebe emphasised the importance of early diagnosis, noting that most colorectal cancer deaths are preventable if caught early.
The documentary featured the voices of patients, healthcare professionals, and advocates, with special focus on the challenges faced by colorectal cancer patients in Nigeria.
A survivor, Mrs Yemisi Daodu, shared her experience of early diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the urgent need for better healthcare options and access to treatment.
“My diagnosis was early, and I started treatment straight away. Since then, I’ve been doing great.’’
She highlighted the benefits of early detection but noted that she had to seek treatment abroad due to limited local healthcare options.
Daodu said she shares her story to highlight health inequalities and ensure patients were prioritised in their care.
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“I am honoured to use this documentary to share my journey; I believe it will save lives,” she said.
The Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS) also marked World Cancer Day in its Ogun chapter, calling for a united effort to combat cancer.
The chapter stressed the importance of a people-centered approach, where the unique experiences of cancer patients guide advocacy and intervention efforts.
“The common enemy is cancer, and it does not discriminate based on profession, background, or personal experiences.
“Our collective strength lies in fostering collaboration and ensuring that the voices of cancer patients are heard and prioritised.”
The NCS in Ogun also called for the government to prioritise cancer patients in the state, noting that cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection are crucial to reducing the disease’s impact.
“The chapter will continue to advocate for improved policies, better access to timely diagnoses and increased public awareness campaigns,’’ it said.
The events on World Cancer Day 2025 served as a powerful reminder of the need for united action in the battle against cancer.
From the FCT Administration’s commitment to better healthcare infrastructure, to NICRAT’s tireless research and training efforts and PPB’s call to prioritise colorectal cancer awareness, it is clear that change is possible when diverse groups come together with a common goal.
As the world confronts the growing challenge of cancer, it is evident that unity remains a key driver of change.
Observers hold the view that by upholding inclusivity, raising awareness and forging strategic partnerships, Nigeria is taking crucial steps toward ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against cancer.
