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The experts cautioned against the use of alternative therapies for breast cancer, stating that such approaches could lead to accelerated deterioration and ultimately, death. In discussing the critical issues surrounding breast cancer in Nigeria, they highlighted the necessity of increasing awareness regarding cancer prevention methods and the latest treatment innovations.
Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, the Chief Medical Director of LUTH, represented by Dr. Ayodeji Oluwole, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, underscored the importance of educating women about breast cancer. He remarked, "Increasing awareness empowers individuals with knowledge. The inspiring stories of two survivors—one who has lived for 17 years and another for five years—demonstrate that this disease does not have to be fatal if women are informed about seeking appropriate treatment."
He affirmed that breast cancer is both preventable and treatable when detected early. He also pointed out the absence of a program specifically designed to support underprivileged patients, while noting that the government has initiated a Chemotherapy Access Programme (CAP) in several teaching hospitals to assist those battling cancer.
"But the most important thing is the National Health Insurance Act. There is a portion of it that talks about cancer treatment and it is better to employ women that everybody should register for the National Health Insurance Act. Once you register, the cost of treatment will come down. The ideal thing is to make it free. Any woman who is with N70,000, obviously cannot afford cancer treatment. But I’m sure the government is looking into that and that’s why this advocacy is very important. When women begin to talk about, how this disease is ravaging them, the government should listen. We have a listening government."
Dr. Lawal Abdulrazzaq highlighted the critical role of early detection and tailored treatment strategies for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer in his submission.
"The high cost of treatment, coupled with limited access to specialized facilities, can be a significant barrier for many patients. Because the minimum wage at 70,000, no patient with breast cancer can afford NSIA/LUTH Cancer Centre. The consultation fee at NLCC is going to make a mess of somebody’s monthly salary if you are a minimum wage earner."
He identified another challenge stemming from a lack of awareness, which often affects both patients and, at times, healthcare providers. He stressed the necessity for public education initiatives and emphasized the importance of support, noting that assistance extends beyond financial resources.
“There are about three main challenges. One is ignorance. People are not aware. The second is funds. The third is coordination of stakeholders and support for these patients. In a country where the minimum wage is N70,000, how can a patient afford radiotherapy that is N1.7 million? What it then means is that if there is no body pain, then the patient is being left to die. The government has set up the Cancer Health Fund, but it is just a drop in the ocean. There is need to expand access to that fund, and there is also a need to expand the coverage.”
He emphasized the need for support from partners regarding stigma. "In this context, partners often play a significant role. When a woman has one breast, it can lead to the presence of side relationships or baby mamas. Breast cancer is treatable, and early detection is crucial. Public awareness is essential. While patients should engage in self-care, we must work towards providing them with affordable treatment options."
He pointed out that breast cancer is often perceived as a death sentence that has been predetermined, yet substantial evidence indicates that overcoming this challenge necessitates the active involvement of patients, society, and the healthcare system to effectively combat the disease.
Highlighting that the most successful treatment is one that the patient is willing to accept and can access, he identified various risk factors associated with breast cancer, including family history, lifestyle choices, and hormonal factors. While some elements, like genetic predisposition, are uncontrollable, others, such as diet, physical activity, and smoking, can be adjusted to lower risk.
Regarding prevention, Lawal acknowledged that preventing breast cancer is complex, as the precise causes remain unknown; however, certain risk factors do elevate the likelihood of developing the disease. He noted that women are nine times more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer compared to men.
One factor that can lower a woman's risk of developing breast cancer is carrying a pregnancy to term at a younger age, with some studies suggesting that this is particularly beneficial for women who are around 20 to 25 years old. Regardless of the specific age, younger mothers tend to have a decreased risk of breast cancer, and this risk further diminishes for women who have multiple children.
Additionally, breastfeeding has been recognized as a protective measure against breast cancer, with recommendations suggesting that women should breastfeed for at least two years to maximize this benefit. The impact of hormonal contraceptives on breast cancer risk remains uncertain, as ongoing research continues to explore this area.
Conversely, smoking has been linked to numerous types of cancer and is widely regarded as a habit that contributes to cancer development. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid smoking, as it is associated with poorer outcomes for women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Regarding alternative therapies, caution is advised, as these treatments have not been proven to cure breast cancer on their own. Dr. HABEEB Mohammed, Chief Clinical Coordinator of NSIA/LUTH Cancer Centre and a Clinical and Radiation Oncologist, emphasized that while advancements in cancer treatment and management are progressing, various social factors can influence cancer risk. These include excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, prior exposure to ionizing radiation, misconceptions about breast cancer, and exposure to hydrocarbons.
He highlighted that screening plays a crucial role in improving outcomes and prognosis for patients, as it significantly reduces the risk of mortality and fatality associated with breast cancer.
The government is making efforts to enhance access to cancer care, with plans to equip the six geopolitical zones with improved facilities and increased funding. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) is among the centers that will benefit from these advancements. Soon, a PET scan facility will be available, providing a high-level radiation scan essential for cancer monitoring.
In the past five years, the cancer center has treated nearly 11,000 patients. It was noted that breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in Nigeria, with over 2 million cases reported globally in 2020, and more than 5 million individuals currently living with the disease. In developed countries, breast cancer mortality and fatality rates have decreased by nearly 60 percent, attributed to the implementation of screening and awareness programs.