Experts Seek Early Detection As Nigeria Records 28,380 New Cases Of Breast Cancer

The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBACAN) report disclosed that Nigeria recorded 28,380 new cases of breast cancer, as healthcare practitioners harped on early detection to stem the high prevalence in the country.

At a virtual media roundtable, organised by Pfizer to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Africans, including Nigerians were urged to take early detection seriously and help friends and families by encouraging regular self-examination and conversations with their doctors.

Healthcare practitioners were also encouraged to employ technologies in their respective approvals to have open conversations and support patients.

Medical director East and Anglo West Africa, Kodjo Soroh revealed that Oncology remains a key therapeutic field for Pfizer in which healthcare practitioners are working to deliver medical breakthroughs that have the potential to change patients’ lives across the region significantly.

Consultant Clinical and Radiation Oncologist, NSIA-LUTH Cancer Center, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria, Dr. Adewumi Alabi, said the importance of clinical research in breast cancer care cannot be overemphasized, adding that the forum is critical as it allows medical experts to share their best insights and findings that can support patients in winning the battle against cancer.

“Breast cancer itself is one of the deadliest diseases with a high prevalence in the area. On a positive note, we now have evidence-based updates and real-world data showing the efficacy of prescriptions in the management of HR+ HER2- mBC patients,” Alabi explained.

Ghana recorded 4,482 new cases of breast cancer, the consultant (Radiotherapy and Oncology) and director, National Centre for Radiotherapy Oncology & Nuclear Medicine, Korle-bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana, Dr. Joel Yarney, disclosed, adding that, “The transformative impact of science on breast cancer is evident within the breast cancer community. While we have made meaningful change for those living with this disease, our work is far from finished.