The Director General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, NICRAT, Abuja, Professor Mallami Aliyu, on Thursday described cancer as not only a physical disease but also a profound emotional and psycho-social challenge for patients and their families.

He said the killer disease is often characterised by anxiety, depression, fear, and uncertainty.

Aliyu stated this at the ongoing 14th Psycho-Oncology Society of Nigeria, POSON, National Scientific Conference and Workshop at the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, DUFUHS, Uburu, in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, with the theme “Integrating Psycho-Oncology into Nigeria’s Mainstream Cancer Care.”

While noting that psycho-oncology is a critical component of modern cancer care he said, “I commend the organisers of this event for providing a platform to reflect on the dimension of cancer care that is often overlooked but is crucial to the holistic treatment and survivorship of our patients.

“The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment was established to provide national leadership in cancer research, prevention, treatment and control in the country.

“Our mandate in the institute is clear, that is to advance scientific knowledge, strengthen the system and ensure that every Nigerian has access to high quality and evidence-based cancer care.

“Cancer is not just a physical disease, but also a profound emotional and psycho-social challenge for patients and families.

“The journey is often marked by anxiety, depression, fear and uncertainty and that is why Psycho-Oncology is a critical component of modern cancer care.”

Vice-Chancellor of DUFUHS, Professor Jesse Uneke, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the university, Professor Nkiruka Folaronmi, described psycho-oncology as not just a discipline but a lifeline.

He said that in Nigeria, where cancer diagnoses often carry the weight of stigma, fear, and emotional distress, psycho-oncologists bridge the gap between physical treatment and psychological well-being.

“As we explore cutting-edge research survivorship, mental health interventions, culturally sensitive care, and holistic support systems, let us keep in focus the patients, families, and communities who depend on us for hope”, he urged psycho-oncologists.

He assured that the university was committed to supporting research, education, and training in Psycho-Oncology, and expressed optimism that the conference would contribute significantly to advancing understanding of the field and improving patient care.

One of the medical doctors in the university, Ikechukwu Chukwuocha, said over 300 cancer patients have been treated in DUFUHS’ state-of-the-art cancer centre since it commenced operation this year.

He said the patients included adults and children who underwent surgeries.

In her address, President of POSON, Dr Elizabeth Akin-Odanye, said the theme of the conference was a timely and urgent call to action.

“As cancer prevalence continues to rise across the country, there is an ever-growing recognition that cancer care just goes beyond surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

“The emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of cancer so central to patients quality of life and survivorship must no longer remain at the periphery of care. It is time for full integration”, she stated.

Cancer care must address emotional, psycho-social challenges – NICRAT DG