The 6th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Association of Radiation and Clinical Oncologists of Nigeria, ARCON, took off in Enugu on Monday with emphasis on improved access to cancer diagnosis and treatment.
National President of ARCON, Dr Nwamaka Lasebekon, at a press briefing ahead of the commencement of the conference, said oncologists were concerned over the high rate of cancer in the country.
She addressed journalists alongside the Association’s General Secretary, Dr Ololade Kehinde, the Financial Secretary, Dr Foluke Sarimiye, the Editor, Prof Danladi Adamu Boduje, the PRO, Dr Samuel Kwis, the Welfare Secretary, Dr Olatunji Temitope, the Asst. General Secretary, Dr Jummai Jimeta-Tuko and the Treasurer, Dr Bolanle Adeboyega.
The President said with the staggering cancer data in the country, with several unreported cases, there was the need for all stakeholders, including individuals to take necessary actions.
She said the conference, with the theme: “Equity in Oncology: Policy, Practice, and Patients,” had brought together international and local healthcare professionals, policymakers, patient advocates, and researchers to discuss critical issues surrounding cancer care and equity in Nigeria and beyond.
“The burden of cancer in the country is increasing, with estimates showing a significant rise in cancer cases in recent years.
“Our current statistics are alarming, with an estimated quoted figure of 125,000 cases yearly and over 78,000 deaths annually.
“These figures are mere approximations as they could be more. We currently hold the worst mortality rates for breast cancer worldwide.
“However, access to quality cancer care has remained unequal, leaving many patients at a disadvantage due to socio-economic and geographic disparities.”
While giving rays of hope, Lasebekon said the Equity in Oncology Initiative, spearheaded by ARCON, would address the disparities head-on.
