The wife of the Kebbi State Governor, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, has identified cancer patients as people most hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. She noted that the pandemic has worsened the situation for the patients leading to increased morbidity and mortality on the continent.
She said, “COVID-19 has taken a heavier toll on breast, cervical and prostate cancer patients. “Before now, patients had to travel a distance to access health care; the pandemic has exacerbated the challenges. The health systems on the continent are not responding appropriately.
“Anecdotal evidence and epidemiological data are testaments to the increasing prevalence of cancer on the continent and we are witnessing increased morbidity and mortality.”
She suggested numerous solutions such as equitable access to health care; strengthening of Primary Health Centres and building the capacity of health workers; implementation of the HPV vaccine planned for 2021; and an increase in awareness on cancer among others.
“The power of collaboration as harnessed in the fight against HIV should be extended to fight cancer,” she added.
The Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, noted that the figure of cancer patients in Africa was frightening. He regretted that cancer cases and mortalities were increasing just as more people were dying undiagnosed.
“There is limited data to accurately show the cancer burden in Africa. An estimated 80 per cent indigents have not been exposed to any form of technology especially in early identification,” the minister said.
source: MedicalWorldNigeria
