…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.

She said in such a state of mind, many women may make uninformed decisions
regarding their healthcare.

Speaking further,she observed that Nigeria has the highest age-standardized
breast cancer mortality rate in the world.

According to her,the delay in accessing care, missing life-saving
treatments, and the aggressive nature of breast cancer in Nigerian women,
particularly those with triple-negative and HER2-positive breast cancer,
contribute to poor survival outcomes.

She recalled that in a 2014 study that compared three-year survival rates,
Nigeria ranked lowest among five African countries, with 59% for Black
women in South Africa, 56% for Black women in Namibia, 47% in Zambia, 44%
in Uganda, and only 36% in Nigeria.

In his remarks at the event,the Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment,NICRAT, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu,described the initiative as a truly transformative journey in the fight against breast cancer.

Prof. Aliyu noted that breast cancer is a disease that touches every aspect of a person’s life—physically, emotionally, socially, and financially,noted however, that “early detection, timely intervention, and seamless access to healthcare resources can dramatically change the course of a diagnosis.”

He described the programme as a momentous milestone in “our continuous effort to enhance patient care, streamline support systems, and empower individuals battling this disease.”

“Breast cancer, as we know, is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer globally, and its impact on families, communities, and societies is devastating.

“It is with this understanding that this collaboration has worked tirelessly to create a solution that brings patients, healthcare providers, and support networks together in one unified system.

“The BRANT digital coaching platform is designed with one core goal: to make navigating the complex landscape of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment easier, faster, and more efficient for patients. It serves as a comprehensive, user-friendly platform that offers personalized care, guidance, and support throughout a patient’s journey—from the moment of diagnosis to the completion of their treatment plan and beyond.

“This coaching digital solution serves as a patient navigator, providing real-time information such as expert consultations, diagnostic tests, treatment facilities and support groups. By facilitating smooth referrals to specialists and treatment centres, we are not only enhancing the continuity of care but also ensuring that no patient falls through the cracks of an overwhelmed system.

“Moreover, the app bridges gaps in communication between patients and healthcare providers. It enables patients to track their appointments, receive reminders, access educational content about their condition, and connect with support groups and mental health services. Patients will no longer feel isolated in their journey.

“They will be equipped with the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being,”Aliyu said.

Speaking further,he acknowledged the tireless work of developers at ONCOPADI, and Roche, saying they have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life.

” This is the result of collaborative effort, innovation, and a shared commitment to improving patient outcomes. Our aim is to ensure that this app serves as not just a tool, but a lifeline for every woman and man who faces the daunting challenge of breast cancer.

“But the journey does not end here. Today’s launch is just the beginning of a new chapter in cancer care. We hope to expand the reach to more communities, so that no matter where someone lives, they can access the highest quality of care and support.

“This is a reflection of our commitment to a patient-centred approach to healthcare. It represents a shift in how we view and treat our patients—not simply as recipients of care, but as active participants in their healing journey. It symbolizes a future where no patient has to face the complexities of breast cancer alone and where every step of the way is guided by compassion, innovation, and collaboration,”he added.

Speaking earlier, the General Manager, Roche Nigeria, Dr. Ladi Hameed,
explained that the Breast Cancer Access Navigation and Testing,BRANT
Programme is a transformative initiative to reshape breast cancer diagnosis
and treatment in the country.

Speaking through his representative at the event and Medical Director,
Roche Products Limited, Dr. Bola Oyedeji, Dr. Hameed observed that in
Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, half of the women diagnosed with
breast cancer do not survive beyond five years.

This,he said ,was due to factors such as lack of awareness, insufficient
funds, and limited access to testing and treatment.