…as 5,000 newly diagnosed patients set to benefit from Roche programme

… NICRAT DG,Prof. Malami Aliyu harps on early detection, timely intervention

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

Over 32,000 new breast cancer cases are expected in Nigeria in the ongoing
year,the Global Cancer Observatory,GCO,has said .

The interactive web-based platform presenting global cancer statistics to
inform cancer control and cancer research,said this on Thursday in Abuja
,at the launch of a Breast Cancer Access Navigation and Testing Programme.

The programme,an initiative of a Swiss pharma giant, Roche, launched in partnership with the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment,NICRAT and Oncopadi Technologies, aims to support 5,000 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients in Nigeria.

The Consultant Clinical Oncologist and founding CEO of Oncopadi
Technologies, Dr. Omolola Salako, speaking at the event,said the figure
indicates that approximately 2,700 cases would be detected each month and
88 cases daily.

“For five seconds, I want you to imagine what it feels like for the 88
women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer today. Now imagine, if you
will, the mental, physical, and financial barriers breast cancer raises.


When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, a ton of emotions consume
her—fear, anger, and confusion.

“In a matter of weeks, she would realize the direct cost of her treatment
would be between 2-30 million naira or maybe more. In fact, her indirect
cost of care may even cost her more if her source of livelihood (her job or
business) is threatened. For example, multiple hospital visits for
diagnosis, treatment, and management of side effects may consume her time
and prevent her from earning her potential,”she said.

According to her, the situation can be overwhelming, frightening, and
distressing for any woman diagnosed with breast cancer.



https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/breast-cancer-nigeria-ll-record-over-32000-new-cases-in-2025says-gco/