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- Seeks inclusion of cancer treatment in insurance schemes
From Sola Ojo, Kaduna
As the World commemorates this year’s cancer day, a Kaduna-based Hassy’s Haven Foundation has decried the non-availability of the latest cancer treatment equipment in Nigeria, especially the northwestern states of Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebi, Zamfara, and Sokoto.
The Foundation in a statement by its Founder, Hussaina Mohammed Yakubu, who recently lost her twin sister to cancer, noted that the situation forces patients to travel long distances, incurring substantial costs for transportation, accommodation, and feeding.
To her, modern technologies like Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) and Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) are out of reach for many due to their capital-intensive nature.
Husseina also made a case for the inclusion of cancer treatment in the National and States Health Insurance Scheme to give more Nigerians the opportunity to have access to treatment within reach.
“Cancer has become a significant health concern in Nigeria, affecting 28% of the population directly or through their family members.
“One major challenge we face is the inadequate cancer treatment equipment in Nigeria, especially in the North West region, lacking any radiotherapy machines.
“The situation forces patients to travel long distances, incurring substantial costs for transportation, accommodation, and feeding.
“Modern technologies like Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) and Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) are out of reach for many due to their capital-intensive nature.
“Hassy’s Haven Foundation calls for policies that address these challenges, advocating for the inclusion of cancer treatment in the Nigerian National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to alleviate the burden on patients and their families”, the statement read in part.
The Foundation, therefore emphasised the importance of regular health check-ups for early detection of any abnormalities, urging all Nigerians to prioritise their health and seek medical attention promptly.
Hassy’s Haven Foundation is committed to disrupting the impact of cancer in Nigeria. We aim to raise awareness, advocate for improved access to treatment and research, and provide support to affected individuals, particularly girls, orphans, widows, and the less privileged.
