By Walbe Orgak, JosThe Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) has reiterated that early detection and treatment of cancer remain the most effective means of saving lives, as the Georgel Cancer Foundation seeks closer partnership with the institution to strengthen cancer awareness and patient support.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Foundation, the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee of JUTH, Dr. Njem Josiah Miner, warned that late presentation of cancer cases continues to be one of the biggest challenges confronting medical practitioners in Nigeria. He explained that many patients arrive at the hospital when the disease has reached advanced stages, reducing the chances of survival and complicating treatment.
“Cancer is not a death sentence if it is detected and treated early,” Dr. Miner stated, adding that consistent public enlightenment and timely health checks remain critical to reversing the trend of needless deaths. He also reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to working with civil society groups and NGOs to expand outreach and preventive care.
The visit formed part of activities marking the official unveiling of the Georgel Cancer Foundation, a newly established non-governmental organization with a vision to raise awareness, support patients, and advocate for policies that prioritize cancer care in Nigeria.
In her remarks, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, Mrs. Retsum George, shared her deeply personal motivation for setting up the initiative. She recounted the painful experience of losing her younger brother after a prolonged four-year battle with cancer, an ordeal that opened her eyes to the devastating impact the disease has not just on patients but also on families.
“Cancer is more than a medical condition; it is an emotional, spiritual, and financial struggle that affects everyone connected to the patient,” she said. “Our Foundation was born out of a determination to ensure that no family goes through this kind of suffering without hope and support.”
According to her, the Foundation intends to provide advocacy, counseling, and material support to patients while also building partnerships with healthcare providers to push for improved diagnostic facilities and early intervention programs.
Cancer, one of the leading causes of death worldwide, is increasingly becoming a major public health concern in Nigeria. Reports indicate that tens of thousands of new cases are recorded annually, with breast, cervical, prostate, and liver cancers being the most prevalent. Experts say poor awareness, cultural beliefs, and limited access to screening services contribute to late presentation and high mortality rates.
The Georgel Cancer Foundation’s visit to JUTH signals a step towards stronger collaboration between medical institutions and civil society actors in the fight against the disease. The event ended with the presentation of educational materials and souvenirs from the Foundation to the Chief Medical Director, symbolizing a commitment to sustained partnership.
Health advocates say initiatives such as this are critical to bridging gaps in cancer care and creating a support network that gives patients not only treatment but also hope.
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