A medical doctor, Dr. Seyi Fadahunsi has called on states and federal government to consider including cancer treatment on health insurance scheme.
Dr. Fadahunsi, a pathologist with Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, made the call in Lokoja on Monday, ahead of this year’s World Cancer Day.
He expressed concern over the cost of treating cancer, adding that it is beyond what the masses or even the middle class can handle.
According to Dr. Fadahunsi, the commonest cancers is that of the breast for women and prostrate for men, pointing out for precautionary measures to contain it.
The medical expert maintained that early detection is a good way of controlling it, saying the record of breast and prostate cancers is increasing in the hospital.
Cancer a disease in which abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and destroy body tissue remains a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020.
World Cancer Day is observed every 4 February to raise awareness about cancer, encourage its prevention, and mobilise action to address the global cancer epidemic.
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025-2027 is United by Unique, which will explore different dimensions of people-centred cancer care and new ways of making a difference.