By Justina Auta
The Okapi Children Cancer Foundation (OCCF) on Tuesday sensitised several communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) about cancer awareness, early symptoms, and treatment to improve survival rates in Nigeria.
During the event at the Dutse-Alhaji Chief Palace in Bwari Area Council, Ms Kemi Adekanye, Chief Volunteer and Founder of the foundation, emphasised the need for increased awareness, particularly regarding childhood cancer.
Adekanye stated that engaging local communities was crucial in addressing challenges related to cancer incidence, mortality, and access to quality care.
“The main purpose of today’s event is to raise awareness about childhood cancer.
“We want the public to know that childhood cancer exists and how they can support affected children,” she said.
She said the event, in partnership with SilverCross Hospital Foundation and the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, provided free medical checks for more than 200 people.
She said that the foundation also pledged to assist with treatment costs for children diagnosed with cancer.
Adekanye expressed concern over the high treatment costs, urging the government and stakeholders to include childhood cancer care in the National Health Insurance Scheme.
“While there is considerable support for breast, cervical, and other adult cancers, childhood cancers are largely overlooked.
“We hope our advocacy will encourage the relevant authorities to provide support for children with cancer,” she said.
The Head of the Pediatric Hemato-Oncology Unit at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, Dr Ifeoma Ezeukwu stated that cancer survival rates in Nigeria were low because of late-stage diagnoses, delayed presentations, and inadequate treatment.
Ezeukwu explained that childhood cancer could present differently depending on the type and age of the child, with symptoms such as recurring fever, fatigue, weight loss, pain, and abnormal swelling in various parts of the body.
“Most childhood cancers are treatable if diagnosed early and treated promptly,” she said.
A breast cancer survivor, Mrs Jummai Matthias urged the public to seek timely medical intervention to improve chances of survival.
Matthias also encouraged people to follow medical diagnoses and treatment plans rather than relying on alternative therapies, which could worsen their condition.
Speaking on behalf of the communities, Mr James Godspower, Youth Leader of the Dutsepe Community, expressed gratitude to the organisers for their support, free medical outreach, and provision of medications.
Godspower added that the initiative would improve their health and assist those who were unable to access healthcare in getting diagnosed for any underlying conditions.
