The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has announced a strategic partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) to integrate early cancer screening and detection into Nigeria’s primary healthcare (PHC) framework.
During a meeting in Abuja, executive director of NPHCDA, Dr. Muyi Aina emphasised the importance of improving cancer care at the grassroots level, particularly with the rising burden of non-communicable diseases like cancer in the country.
“This collaboration is crucial, especially given the increasing cancer cases in Nigeria,” Aina said. He noted the urgent need for effective prevention and treatment strategies, including enhancing healthcare workers’ capacity to detect early signs of cancer and refer patients for necessary care.
Aina also announced that NPHCDA has updated its minimum service package to include affordable cancer-related services at PHCs. “By expanding our services, we aim to ensure more Nigerians have access to early screening and detection, vital for effective cancer treatment,” he added.
He highlighted that the partnership would focus on training community-level healthcare workers to improve early diagnosis and referral processes. Additionally, public awareness campaigns will educate communities about regular screening and available services.
With Nigeria reporting over 100,000 new cancer cases annually, Aina expressed hope that this collaboration would significantly improve early detection and foster a culture of preventive healthcare.
Prof. Sani Malami, who represented the director-general of the Nigeria Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, stressed the importance of synergy between NPHCDA and cancer research institutions. “We must work together to define our roles in the fight against cancer,” he said, commending NPHCDA for its efforts, including the introduction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, a key tool in preventing cervical and related cancers.
The mission lead from IAEA, Dr. Alfred Karagu noted that PHCs are critical as the first point of contact for many patients. “Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes,” he said, urging NPHCDA to continue supporting early intervention initiatives across Nigeria.
As stakeholders unite in this endeavour, NPHCDA calls on communities to participate in screening programs and utilise the available healthcare services, reaffirming its commitment to improving cancer detection and care in Nigeria.
