Experts unveil TeleOncology hub to expand cancer care

The Cancer Consciousness Initiative (CCI) has inaugurated the TeleOncology Hub to improve access to specialist cancer care in Northeastern Nigeria.

The programme offers telemedicine consultations, virtual Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meetings, and patient navigation services.

Dr Hannatu Ayuba, CEO of CCI and Programme Lead of TeleOncology Hub, described the initiative as a health system strengthening programme in an interview with newsmen on Sunday in Abuja.

Ayuba highlighted the rising number of cancer cases in the region, emphasising the urgent need to enhance healthcare access.

“Many patients in underserved communities face obstacles that delay diagnosis and treatment, affecting survival.

“In the Northeast, breast cancer accounts for 60 per cent of cases and is often diagnosed at late stages, creating huge challenges for treatment,” she said, urging awareness of key symptoms and early intervention.

She advised women to watch for breast lumps, changes in breast shape, nipple discharge, or other unusual signs.

“If you notice anything unusual, contact your nearest health centre immediately.

“Early detection through self-exams, mammograms, and regular check-ups can save lives.

“Reducing cancer disparities ensures better care and improved health outcomes for all patients.

“To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the CCI collaborated with partners to organise townhall meetings and a mega-rally, raising awareness and improving access to specialist care in underserved communities,” Ayuba added.

Ayuba said the initiative provided hope, enabling patients to connect with oncology experts remotely.

“This programme offers survival opportunities for cancer patients through telemedicine and MDT approaches with healthcare specialists,” she said.

She said since the programme was inaugurated in April at FMC Jalingo, the TeleOncology Hub had made significant progress in addressing cancer care disparities in remote and underserved areas across the region.

“The initiative now collaborates with Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, FMC Nguru, and Yobe State University Teaching Hospital Damaturu, expanding access to tele-oncology services and virtual specialist consultations.

“Recently, CCI launched a community patient navigation programme in Borno State in partnership with the Grow Strong Foundation, integrating telemedicine, MDT virtual meetings, EMR monitoring via PocketPatientMD, and patient guidance for timely care.

“The programme has onboarded more than 35 patients, with more than 85 per cent of navigation encounters resulting in prompt diagnoses, treatments, and follow-ups.

“Video MDT meetings overcome geographical barriers and improve care coordination.”

Ayuba added that healthcare professionals, nurses, and pharmacy staff had been trained in oncology care, digital health tools, and patient navigation to strengthen local capacity and quality of care.

“CCI has partnered with patient assistance programmes, including BRANT by Oncopadi/Roche, providing free immunohistochemistry testing to 5,000 women. Merck and AstraZeneca offer free KRAS and EGFR testing for colorectal and lung cancer patients.”

She noted that late-stage diagnoses, financial constraints, and cultural barriers remained major challenges in remote areas.

“Only 8.6 per cent of patients at one centre are enrolled in health insurance or national schemes.

“To support patients, we provide financial counseling, aid for treatment, transportation, and logistics.

“Our goal is to unlock access to cancer care for all, regardless of location or financial status,” Ayuba said.

Looking ahead, she said CCI planned to expand TeleOncology Hub services nationwide.

She said the plans included HIPAA-compliant telemedicine suites, broader training programmes, novel diagnostic integration through the African Digital Health Network, and advocacy for sustainable funding and policy support.