Nigerian Cancer Society, Kano State Chapter, has organized a press conference in commemoration of World Cancer Day under the global theme: “United by Unique.”
The chairman Nigerian Cancer society Kano state chapter Mallam Salisu Yusuf said World Cancer Day is a crucial reminder of the collective action needed to address the growing cancer burden in our society.
Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, and Kano State is not exempted from its devastating impact.
As the number of cancer cases arise, the financial burden on patients, and limited access to quality treatment and care require urgent attention from all stakeholders.
The chairman said that there is need for Kano state government as a matter of urgency to intervene in subsidizing cancer care services in all state owned hospitals.
As many patients struggle to afford diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care.
An urgent call on the Kano State Government to:
1. Subsidize Cancer Services – The government should introduce subsidized cancer care services in all state-owned hospitals to ease the burden on patients. (Cancer hospital)
2. Integrate Cancer Services into Health Insurance – The Kano Contributory Health Care Management Agency (KCHIMA) should fully integrate cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care under its coverage. Many cancer patients, especially from low-income families, cannot afford the high cost of care.
3. Include Cancer Patients & Survivors in the recently unveiled Abba Care scheme for 300’000 Vulnerable people, That is, The state’s social welfare and vulnerable persons program of Abba Care should recognize cancer patients and survivors as vulnerable individual provide financial relief and access to free or highly subsidized treatments.
4. Key in to the Sustainable Cancer Trust Fund Establish by NGOs urge the government to key into the Cancer Trust Fund to ensure consistent support for cancer care and patient welfare.
5. Drug and consumables Management and supply agency and Kano State Health Trust fund
Mallam Salisu Yusuf said Cancer care requires a multi-sectoral approach.
While the government plays a central role, we also call on philanthropists, corporate organizations, private health institutions, and NGOs to actively support cancer care initiatives in Kano State.
The Nigerian Cancer Society, Kano State Chapter, remains committed to:
1. Advocating for policy changes that prioritize cancer patients in Kano State.
2. Creating awareness and promoting early detection through community outreach programs.
3. Providing emotional and psychological support to cancer patients and survivors.
4. Strengthening collaborations with stakeholders to improve cancer care infrastructure in Kano State.
While concluding his address, he said that cancer is a battle that we must fight together to reaffirm our commitment where cancer care should be accessible, affordable and effective for all
