World Cancer Day: Foundation commits to advocacy against cancer
A cancer advocacy group, Hassy’s Haven Foundation, has aligned itself with the ongoing global efforts to raise awareness and take action against cancer.
A statement by the founder, Hussaina Yakubu, issued on Sunday in Kaduna said its stand is because cancer has emerged as a pressing health concern in Nigeria.
She said cancer has been impacting 28 per cent of the Nigerian population directly or through their families.
Yakubu said the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment has indicated that Nigeria witnesses over 120,000 new cases of cancer annually.
She said in 2020 alone, an estimated 78,000 Nigerians succumbed to cancer-related complications, with 44,699 females and 34,200 males affected.
This calls for urgent proactive measures, she added.
She said,”Hassy’s Haven Foundation is resolute in its commitment to disrupt the impact of cancer in Nigeria.
”Our focus includes raising awareness, advocating improved access to treatment and research, as well as providing support to affected individuals, particularly girls, orphans, widows, and the less -privileged.”
Yakubu, however, observed that inadequate cancer treatment facilities in Nigeria remain a huge challenge.
“The significant challenge is the inadequacy of cancer treatment equipment in Nigeria, notably in the North-West region, where the absence of radiotherapy machines poses a formidable obstacle.
”This situation compels patients to endure long journeys incurring substantial costs for transportation, accommodation and feeding.
“Modern technologies like Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) and Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) remain out of reach for many due to their capital-intensive nature.”
Yakubu therefore advocated for policies to address these challenges.
She also called for the inclusion of cancer treatment in the Nigerian National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to alleviate the burden on patients and their families.
Yakubu said that the foundation would sensitise Nigerians on the importance of regular health checks to detect abnormalities early.
“Nigerians should prioritise their health and seek medical attention promptly,” she added.
According to her, early intervention can significantly impact the outcome of cancer-related diseases.
She explained that the foundation was set up in memory of her twin sister who died of cancer.
“With the support of stakeholders, Hassy’s Haven Foundation aspires to make significant strides in the fight against cancer and contribute to creating a healthier future for all Nigerians.
”Hassy’s Haven Foundation was created in the loving memory of the late Hassana Mohammed-Yakubu, who died on Oct.9, 2023, after battling cancer for eight years,” Yakubu said.
Until her death, the deceased was a Principal Correspondent of News Agency of Nigeria at the Kaduna Zonal office of the Agency.