- Free Screening: The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to provide free screening for Nigerians suffering from all stages of cancer.
- Subsidized Treatment: The House also seeks subsidized treatment for cancer patients, citing the high costs of treatment as a major barrier to care.
- Cancer Burden: Nigeria faces a significant public health challenge with cancer, with many patients unable to afford treatment due to high costs.
- Legislative Action: The House has mandated its Committee on Healthcare Services to collaborate with relevant agencies to establish a mechanism for subsidized cancer treatment and related drugs.
The House of Representatives has passed a resolution calling on the Federal Government to provide free screening and subsidized treatment for Nigerians suffering from cancer. This move aims to address the growing burden of cancer in the country, where many patients are unable to afford treatment due to high costs. According to reports, about 125,000 people were diagnosed with cancer in Nigeria in 2020, with breast, prostate, and cervical cancer being the most common types.
The House has mandated its Committee on Healthcare Services to work with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to establish a mechanism for subsidized cancer treatment and related drugs. Additionally, the House has called for the establishment of more cancer treatment centers and the procurement of additional radiotherapy machines to improve access to care. These measures aim to alleviate the suffering of cancer patients and improve treatment outcomes through early detection and intervention.
