Funmi Ogundare

Medical experts, yesterday, called for prevention, early detection and treatment of breast cancer through collaborations with the private sector.

Speaking at a panel discussion to celebrate ‘World Cancer Month’, themed, ‘Embrace your Breast: Close the Care Gap’, organised by Mecure Cancer Center, in Lagos, the Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist, Mecure, Dr. Adeoluwa Adeniji, expressed concern about the scourge of breast cancer which affects mostly women, saying that it is common globally.

He compared the prevalence of the scourge between Africa and the western world saying that the mortality is more in Africa; and that with more awareness about it, people can get cured when they present it early.

According to him, “Breast cancer can occur around the armpit area. However, people present it very late when the cancer is advanced. It is curable when it is detected early, which is key. Once it is detected, treatment follows.”

He stated that with PET/CT scan, an effective treatment is ensured, adding that, “we need to push down the mortality rate, ensure more professionals and equipment in the field are available to stamp out the scourge.”

Dr. Adeniji expressed concern about the challenge of brain-drain, saying that policy makers must make the country attractive for doctors to stay in Nigeria.

“It takes many years to train an oncologist and once they are fully trained, it takes a lot such as infrastructure, health insurance, among others, that the doctors will need to work with, for them to stay. There is a fulfilment you get when your patient stays alive,” he stressed.

A cancer survivor and Chief Executive Officer, Tinuke Cancer Foundation, Ms Tinu Lawal, recalled how she was diagnosed with breast cancer nine years ago when the awareness about the scourge was low and people had to live in denial.

However, with improved care and facilities to treat it, she said there is a lot to be hopeful for, adding that rather than believe in misconception or take things for granted, one needs to do a regular check of one’s breast.

“Now with new facilities and inventions for chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, things are much more better now and there is a lot to be hopeful for.”

A Corporate Banker with Union Bank, Mr. Oluyinka Kuyinu, also emphasised on early detection and creating awareness about the scourge saying that the private sector can work with organisations like Mecure and ensure discount on screening and treatment.