The Nasarawa State Government has established a Cancer Desk Office at the State Ministry of Health to provide adequate care and support to cancer patients in the state.
The Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Health, Dr. John Damina, made the disclosure on Tuesday during a press briefing to commemorate the 2025 World Cancer Day.
According to Dr. Damina, the desk office is expected to gather comprehensive data on cancer patients in both urban and rural areas, helping to identify challenges and inform policy decisions.
He noted that a Population-Based Cancer Registry is also being set up in collaboration with the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, adding that the registry will provide reliable data to guide policy decisions and interventions.
Dr. Damina emphasized that the fight against cancer requires collective efforts from individuals, families, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and the media.
He urged residents to prioritize regular screenings and report any unusual developments to their healthcare providers, adding that early detection is key to effective cancer treatment.
The Vice President of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Dr. Ukoma Chi-Kadibia, also emphasized the importance of early detection, noting that cancer detected at an early stage is easier to treat than when it stays in the human body for a long period.
According to the World Health Organization, cancer causes over 72,000 deaths annually in Nigeria, with an estimated 102,000 new cases each year.
Breast and cervical cancers are the most common among women, while prostate cancer is the most common among men.
The establishment of the Cancer Desk Office and registry is a significant step towards improving cancer care and outcomes for residents of Nasarawa State.
