The House of Representatives during its plenary on Tuesday December 10, 2019 sought for free treatment for children living with Cancer in Nigeria.
Honourable Abdulganiyu Cook Olododo who moved the motion noted that right to life is the Fundamental Right of any person guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria including children who are very significant and Leaders of tomorrow but they are vulnerable and their wellbeing plus upkeep depend on the Adult.
According to an estimate by World Health Organisation (WHO) up to 30,000 children are diagnosed with Cancer yearly and 80% of them live in low and middle income Countries like Nigeria. In addition, globally 160,000 new cases of cancer is reported every year and 90,000 death recorded annually are Children under the age of 15years.
He is concerned that childhood cancer as a growing public Health challenge is on the increase and recognised Worldwide, Children are victims of dangerous medical conditions which increase their vulnerability in view of high mortality rate due to poor medical care and its devastating consequences as it is often detected late for effective treatment thereby kills children faster within six months to one year.
Furthermore, it is noted that there are many types of cancer in children most of which has no specific cause; some are linked to viral causes, some to exposure of parent/child to radiation or chemicals.
Hon. olododo believes that cancer mortality can be reduced if cases are detected and treated through early diagnosis and it will lead to greater probability of survival, less morbidity and less expensive treatment.
The House therefore urged the Federal Ministry of Health to take necessary steps to ensure free treatment of childhood cancer in all Federal Hospitals and to also collaborate with States’ Ministries of Health and other relevant Stakeholders to embark on Sensitization campaigns on preventive measures of childhood cancer.
Olalere Taiwo
For: Head of press
Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters- Reps
