World Cancer Day: Cancer Care Worsens, as Brain Drain Increases

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As the global community commemorates World Cancer Day, findings have revealed that the migration of Nigerian clinical oncologists to developed countries is crippling the cancer care system in the country, with only about 70 specialists left to manage over 124,000 cancer patients. This is according to the findings of a study led by Runcie Chidebe, founder of Project PINK BLUE, a cancer advocacy nonprofit.

Published in JCO Global Oncology, the study found that nearly 90 per cent of Nigerian oncologists are actively seeking opportunities abroad, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

The report highlights that excessive workload, poor remuneration, and dissatisfaction with oncology care infrastructure as main factors driving this brain drain aka JAPA Syndrome.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines cancer as a large group of diseases that can start in almost any organ or tissue of the body when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, go beyond their usual boundaries to invade adjoining parts of the body, and spread to other organs. This process, known as metastasizing, is a major cause of death from cancer.

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World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, is an international day led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to raise awareness about cancer, encourage its prevention, and mobilise action to address the global cancer epidemic. Established in 2000, it serves as a unifying initiative under which the entire world can unite together to reduce the global cancer burden.

The theme for the World Cancer Day 2025, being “Close the Care Gap: Everyone Deserves Access to Cancer Care’ emphasising the need to close the inequalities gap to access quality cancer care .This campaign focuses on placing individuals and communities at the heart of cancer care and health systems, recognising that behind every diagnosis lies a unique human story.

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According to the WHO, the most common types of cancer include lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach, and liver cancer in men, and breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, and thyroid cancer in women. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplants. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving survival rates

The apex health body recommends at least one oncologist per 100 cancer patients, yet Nigeria currently has an estimated ratio of one oncologist per 1,500 patients. This severe gap has led to delayed diagnoses, longer treatment wait times, and a higher mortality rate among cancer patients.

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To resolve this challenge, the study recommends urgent policy reforms, including expanding oncology residency programmes, offering competitive salaries, and improving cancer care facilities with advanced chemotherapy equipment. The lead author also calls for incentives to retain these specialists and encourage those in the diaspora to return.

“Without swift intervention, Nigeria’s cancer burden will continue to rise, which would further overwhelm an already struggling healthcare system.” He concluded.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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