High Cancer Treatment Costs Force Patients to Abandon Care

Dr. Omolola Salako, a Clinical Oncologist and Chief Executive Officer of Pearl Oncology Specialist Hospital, revealed that the exorbitant costs of cancer treatment in Nigeria, which can range from ₦10 million to ₦60 million, lead many patients to discontinue their care. During an interview on ARISE NEWS, she noted that while some patients are presenting early for treatment, the financial burden remains a significant challenge.

Salako outlined six major cancer treatment modalities available in Nigeria: surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, target therapy, and hormone therapy. She pointed out that health insurance coverage is limited, with very few Nigerians insured, and there is a substantial cap on cancer care.

Salako stressed the importance of early detection, recommending annual medical check-ups and specific screenings based on age. She stated that cancers detected at potentially curable stages, particularly stage one and two, can be cured, while some patients with stage-four cancer can still lead long, healthy lives depending on various factors.