Nigeria Records Over 120,000 Cancer Cases With 78,000 Annual Deaths, official statistics reveals
By Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
As the world marks World Cancer Day 2025, Nigeria particularly Borno State and its capital, Maiduguri continues to face major challenges in the fight against cancer. This year’s theme, “United by Unique,” underscores the importance of personalized cancer care, ensuring that every patient receives treatment tailored to their specific needs.
Cancer remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, with over 120,000 new cases recorded annually and 78,000 cancer-related deaths in 2020 alone. Women bear a heavier burden, accounting for 44,699 deaths, while men recorded 34,200 deaths that year. Breast, cervical, and prostate cancers remain the most prevalent in the country.
To combat this growing crisis, the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) has intensified efforts through awareness campaigns, improved access to screenings, expanded treatment options, and training more specialists. However, access to quality cancer care remains inadequate, particularly in conflict-affected regions like Borno State.
In Borno State, cancer data collection has been hampered by insecurity and an overstretched healthcare system. However, available records from the Maiduguri Cancer Registry show that in 2016, 262 cases were documented, with 152 women and 110 men diagnosed. Among women, breast cancer (59 cases) and cervical cancer (22 cases) were the most common, while prostate cancer (39 cases) led among men.
Despite these figures, cancer care in Borno State remains limited. Diagnostic facilities are scarce, and the number of specialists is insufficient to meet the rising demand. Institutions such as the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) continue to provide essential cancer services, but there is an urgent need for greater investment in early detection, screening, and treatment infrastructure.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 50% of cancers can be prevented through lifestyle modifications. Reducing tobacco use, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, getting regular medical check-ups, and receiving vaccines such as HPV (for cervical cancer) and Hepatitis B (for liver cancer) are crucial preventive measures. Additionally, staying physically active and managing weight can lower the risk of obesity-related cancers.
The “United by Unique” theme calls for a more inclusive and patient-centered approach to cancer care, particularly in underserved regions like Maiduguri and other parts of Borno State. There is an urgent need for stronger healthcare policies, increased funding, better-equipped hospitals, and specialized training programs to close the gaps in cancer prevention and treatment.
As Nigeria observes World Cancer Day 2025, the focus should remain on strengthening healthcare systems, making cancer care more accessible, and ensuring that every individual regardless of location or economic status receives the treatment and support they deserve.
COV/BBW
