Families in Nigeria Grapple with Cancer's Heavy Toll: A Call for Urgent Action

For many families in Nigeria, the struggle against cancer has become a relentless battle, marked by a grim cycle of diagnoses, treatments, and heartbreaking losses. The story of one Lagos family epitomizes this harrowing experience. Over the past fifteen years, they have faced three separate cancer diagnoses, each costing them not only their financial stability but also their emotional well-being. The ordeal began in 2010 when Chukwuma, a promising 24-year-old architect, was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer. His family fought valiantly against the disease, pouring their resources into treatment, but Chukwuma died in 2015, leaving an unfillable void. Just a year later, the family faced another tragedy as the patriarch was diagnosed with jaw cancer, which metastasized and ultimately claimed his life in 2019. Fast forward to 2024, and the family's mother is now battling advanced uterine cancer. Limited by late-stage diagnostics, she finds herself in a private cancer treatment center in Victoria Island, Lagos, where the costs are astronomical—N3.5 million for initial diagnostics alone, with tens of thousands more needed for comprehensive treatment. This family's plight reflects a larger trend in Nigeria, where over 120,000 new cancer cases are reported annually, according to the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment. Dr. Francis Durosinmi-Etti, a leading oncologist at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, has observed an alarming rise in cancer cases, particularly among men. "We are witnessing an explosion in cases, with prostate cancer and colorectal cancer affecting younger populations," he explained. Unfortunately, many of these cases are diagnosed too late, rendering treatment options less effective and outcomes dire. The financial burden of cancer treatment in Nigeria is staggering. A single round of chemotherapy can exceed one million naira, making it unaffordable for many. For advanced cancers, costs can escalate into millions, primarily due to a heavy dependence on imported medical equipment and a struggling public healthcare system. The devaluation of the naira has exacerbated this crisis, leaving countless families in financial jeopardy. Innovations in cancer treatment have led to the development of expensive immunotherapies that provide hope but come with hefty price tags. A drug like Radium-223, necessary for treating advanced prostate cancer, can cost between $43,000 and $57,000 for a six-cycle regimen—figures that are astronomically high for the average Nigerian. Amidst the despair, stories of resilience emerge. Elizabeth Awo-Ejeh, who battled breast cancer, underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy and 25 radiation sessions. Through her struggle, she learned the value of early detection and the need for financial support. "We were pushed to our financial limits. I turned to social media to share my story, and a cancer foundation stepped in to help with my treatment costs," she said, urging others to prioritize self-examinations and early diagnoses. Dr. Durosinmi-Etti emphasizes that tackling cancer in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach. "Prevention and early detection are crucial," he urged, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve access to treatment and raise public awareness. An oncology pharmacist echoed this sentiment, calling for urgent action to lower drug prices and alleviate the financial strain on patients. The stories of families besieged by cancer serve as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for systemic changes in Nigeria's healthcare landscape. Access to affordable, quality cancer treatment is essential not only for the well-being of individuals but also for the health of the nation as a whole. As the fight against cancer intensifies, it is imperative that healthcare stakeholders mobilize resources and advocate for policies that prioritize patient care and affordability. The stakes are high, and the clock is ticking for countless families facing the shadow of this devastating disease.