The Dorcas Cancer Foundation (TDCF) and the Lagos Doyen Lions Club have expressed concern over the low survival rate of children battling cancer in Nigeria. With only 30% of children living with cancer in the country surviving, the organizations are calling for increased investment in awareness campaigns to combat the disease.
Dr. Adedayo Joseph, the Founder of TDCF, highlighted the need for the federal government and healthcare stakeholders to think innovatively to address the cancer epidemic. She emphasized that while Childhood Cancer Day is marked worldwide, it should serve as a day of reflection rather than celebration in Nigeria. Dr. Joseph stressed the importance of taking tangible action to improve the survival rate for childhood cancer, citing the significantly higher rates achieved in more developed countries.
The visit to the Pediatric oncology ward at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) served as a platform for the Lagos Doyen Lions Club to demonstrate their commitment to supporting children with cancer. The club’s second Vice District Governor, Mary Onu, explained that they provided care kits and medical supplies to aid in the treatment and care of the children and their families. Onu also highlighted the importance of awareness, as many people remain unaware that cancer can affect children.
The President of the Lagos Doyen Lions Club emphasized their role as a service organization focused on eradicating childhood cancer and providing relief to those in need. He acknowledged the high cost of cancer treatment and expressed the Club’s desire to make a difference in the lives of these children through their donation.
Onari Duke, Chairman of the Child Survival and Development Organization of Nigeria, emphasized the need for early diagnosis and increased awareness, particularly in rural communities. Duke acknowledged that while progress has been made in reducing the prevalence of childhood cancer, there is still much work to be done. She stressed the importance of increasing the survival rate and reducing child mortality caused by cancer through collaborative efforts with various stakeholders.
The current survival rate for childhood cancer in Nigeria stands at a concerning 30%. Duke urged for greater awareness, early detection, and improved access to healthcare services to improve these statistics. She expressed her determination to work with other stakeholders to lower the current rate and ensure more children with cancer receive timely and effective treatment.
It is clear that concerted efforts are required to address the low survival rate of children with cancer in Nigeria. Investing in awareness campaigns, improving access to healthcare services, and ensuring early detection are crucial steps towards improving the situation. With the collaborative efforts of organizations like the Dorcas Cancer Foundation and the Lagos Doyen Lions Club, there is hope for a brighter future for children battling cancer in Nigeria.
