Nigeria's Cancer Care Struggles: Only 10 Radiotherapy Machines for Over 200 Million People

Nigeria has made significant progress in cancer care at the federal level over the last decade. However, challenges persist as the country has only 10 radiotherapy machines to serve its population of over 200 million.

Access to essential cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy is limited due to high costs. The Federal Ministry of Health has established cancer care centers in six geopolitical zones, including locations like Maiduguri, Lagos, and Abuja.

Despite efforts to improve cancer care, there is a shortage of oncologists and pathologists nationwide, with fewer than 70 oncologists and fewer than 200 pathologists in the country. The lack of skilled personnel, infrastructure, and access to care contributes to preventable deaths from cancer.

Initiatives like the National Cancer Health Fund aim to support cancer patients, but challenges related to drug access and workforce shortages persist.