“Nigerian Anaesthetists Advocate for Enhanced Healthcare Systems to Improve Cancer Treatment”

The Nigerian Society of Anaesthetists (NSA) has emphasised the urgent need for improved healthcare systems, workforce welfare, and security measures to enhance the outcomes of cancer patients in Nigeria and curtail the issue of brain drain. This call was made during a press briefing in Abuja, in preparation for the 2023 World Anaesthesia Day, with the theme “Anaesthesia and Cancer Care,” commemorated worldwide on October 16.

Dr. Busola Alagbe-Briggs, the President of the NSA, highlighted the theme’s significance, emphasising the role of anaesthetists in cancer care. While COVID-19 and other diseases have dominated recent health discussions, cancer has been somewhat neglected. Cancer treatment often involves surgery, where anaesthetists play a pivotal role in ensuring patients are fit for procedures. They work closely with surgeons and nurses to ensure the success of cancer surgeries.

Dr. Alagbe-Briggs drew attention to the diminishing workforce, referring to the “Japa syndrome” where healthcare professionals leave the country. She cited the World Health Organization’s projection that cancer cases could increase from 19.8 million to around 30 million by 2040. To address these challenges, the NSA is advocating for safe anaesthesia, workforce development, and increased funding for cancer management, which sometimes requires special equipment and expensive drugs.

Prof. Iniabasi Ilori, Chairman and Chief Examiner of the Faculty of Anaesthesia at the West African College of Surgeons, expressed concern about diminishing manpower and insecurity affecting healthcare access. Healthcare workers often feel unsafe, leading many to consider leaving the country. Prof. Ilori stressed the importance of improving health facilities, ensuring healthcare personnel’s well-being, and enhancing security.

Dr. Maryrose Osazuwa, Vice President of the society, emphasised the need to focus on children suffering from cancer, lamenting the neglect and lack of support for this group. She also called for broader and more efficient health insurance coverage, as many people are not covered, leading to delayed or complicated treatments.

Prof. Tonia Onyeka, National President of the Hospice and Palliative Care Association (HPCAN), urged the government to address manpower shortages, particularly in the field of anaesthesia. This is crucial for pain and symptom management in cancer patients.

Lastly, Prof. Sotonye Fyneface-Ogan, former President of the Society of Obstetric Anaesthetists of Nigeria (SOAN), highlighted the pressing need for the government to address challenges in maternal healthcare to reduce the high maternal mortality rate.

The NSA’s advocacy underscores the critical role anaesthetists play in the broader context of cancer care and the need for comprehensive healthcare improvements to address the cancer burden in Nigeria. (NAN)