Medical professionals have called for increased research and improved access to clinical services to ensure effective treatment outcomes for children suffering from cancer.
The call was made during the 2025 virtual “Dear Doctor” annual series in Abuja on Sunday. The event organised by the Okapi Children Cancer Foundation (OkapiCCF) aims at raising public awareness of childhood cancer and address common questions about the disease.
The Managing Director and CEO of the Centre for Clinical Care and Research, Dr. Ayodotun Olutola, emphasised that research and clinical services were crucial to improving treatment outcomes for children with cancer.
Olutola highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care in ensuring better outcomes for the young patients. According to him, investing in these areas would enhance treatment success and provide hope to both children and their families.
Also, the Senior Paediatric Consultant at the National Hospital, Abuja, Dr. Adewumi Oyesakin, delivered a presentation titled, “Childhood Cancer 101 – Basics Everyone Should Know About Childhood Cancer,” explaining that childhood cancer typically affects children and adolescents.
Oyesakin, who was represented by Dr. Juliet Okpala, Oyesakin identified leukemia, brain and spinal tumours, neuroblastoma, and Wilms tumour as some of the major cancers affecting children.
She also noted that cancer symptoms varied, but common signs, such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, fever, persistent pain, and swollen lymph nodes, should prompt immediate consultation with healthcare professionals. She stressed that early detection significantly improved treatment outcomes.
A Consultant Paediatric Haemato-Oncologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, Dr. Ifeoma Ezeukwu-Orogade, highlighted the importance of advocacy and public awareness in the fight against childhood cancer.
She however, called for greater education of communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the challenges families face in accessing care for childhood cancer.
The President of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, represented by Dr. Tessy Ahmadu, reaffirmed the society’s commitment to prioritising childhood cancer care. Omonisi said there were plans to establish a childhood cancer registry in Abuja to help improve care and treatment for affected children.
Susan Nyabate-Mageto, representing Childhood Cancer International, drew attention to the physical disabilities, mental health challenges, and ongoing care needs faced by childhood cancer survivors as they grow into adulthood.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Oluwakemi Adekanye, OkapiCCF Chief Volunteer and Founder, reiterated the organisation’s dedication to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer.
She emphasised the need for awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, encourage early detection, and provide continuous support for survivors navigating their post-recovery health journey.
The event attracted more than 60 participants, including healthcare professionals, cancer survivors, patient advocates, and members of the general public, who engaged in an insightful discussion on childhood cancer.
