Cancer Survivors and Cancer Policy in Nigeria

In Nigeria, there are thousands of cancer survivors across the country, but very few survivors are seen speaking and making public statements on cancer.

Cancer survivors in Nigeria decline from public appearances for a number of reasons, but stigma associated with cancer in Nigeria seems to be the most critical of all. For instance, in an interview conducted by Project PINK BLUE revealed that a cancer survivor who is married and has children might not like to publicly speak about his/her cancer journey, as some fragments of the society may label them and their children may have problems getting married and building relationships. For cancer survivors who got care in India, the United Kingdom and other foreign countries, they seem to have other reasons like anger with the entire health system.

Despite all these challenges, cancer survivors are primary actors in cancer control; their voices are stronger than the voices of other advocates including the doctors. They passed through cancer and cancer passed through them. They can make a remarkable difference in cancer control in Nigeria.

Cancer survivors need to perceive cancer advocacy as a platform to give back to society, they need help from other women, they need to come out from their closest and advocate for a viable cancer control policy so that other women, children and men will not suffer as they suffered.

In 2016, Project PINK BLUE initiated the use of “cancer champion” instead of cancer patients or survivors in Nigeria. We believe that everyone diagnosed with cancer is a champion whether they are still receiving treatment or have completed their treatment- they are champion. When we say “Champion,” you respond “For Life.”  

Are you a cancer survivor (champion), and wish to lead advocacy in Nigeria, and you need help; please don’t hesitate to call 08188 347 020 or 07086908385.  You can also email: [email protected]