Medical experts have renewed calls on the Federal Government to expand access to cancer care by establishing more treatment centres across Nigeria.
The appeal came from the Association of Radiation Oncologists of Nigeria (ARCON) during its 8th Annual Scientific Conference and General Meeting in Port Harcourt.
ARCON President, Nwamaka Lasebikan, said additional centres would ease the growing burden of cancer and reduce related deaths nationwide.
"We must rethink cancer in Nigeria. Our goal is to build a resilient, inclusive, and people-focused oncology ecosystem," she said.
Lasebikan also called for increased government funding to strengthen the Cancer Health Fund (CHF), which currently covers breast, cervical, and prostate cancers. She noted that the scheme lacks consistency and sufficient coverage to meet patient needs.
"Government must re-engineer the funding model and invest in hospitals where cancer is treated, so patients can access care without financial distress.
"Cancer treatment is expensive globally, and Nigeria must do more to support patients", she added.
The ARCON president further urged attention to post-treatment care, mental health support for survivors, and the creation of regulatory platforms to expand access to subsidised treatment.
On prevention, she advised Nigerians to avoid smoking, reduce alcohol intake, adopt healthier diets, and engage in more physical activity.
Seaking further, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Olusegun Biyi-Olutunde, acknowledged government efforts but described them as inadequate.
He stressed that Nigeria still lacks sufficient radiotherapy and treatment centres, noting that these capital-intensive projects require urgent state investment.