The Department of Radiation and Clinical Oncology at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, Ogun State, has sought collaboration with the Ogun State House of Assembly to combat cancer.
This initiative arose when a team of oncologists, led by Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist Dr. Lateef Salako, visited members of the state assembly to raise awareness about cancer and advocate for improved healthcare policies.
While addressing the lawmakers, Salako emphasized the urgent need for effective legislation to better serve the people of the state in terms of cancer care.
He pointed out the scarcity of radiotherapy machines nationwide and urged the government to take steps to increase their availability.
Salako suggested that the state government could play a pivotal role by investing in radiotherapy machines to ensure more accessible cancer treatment for its citizens.
Salako also highlighted the shortage of manpower and essential equipment, which hinders effective cancer management in the state.
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He noted that addressing quacks and quackery is crucial as it increases mortality and morbidity within the cancer ecosystem.
Furthermore, Salako disclosed that the Federal Medical Centre in Abeokuta is poised to become a state-of-the-art radiotherapy center equipped with the latest technology in the near future.
He tasked the Assembly, led by Honourable Oludaisi Elemide, with consistently developing policies for effective cancer management in the state.
These policies should encompass various aspects of cancer care, including screening, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and the critical importance of early detection.
Salako urged the Assembly to influence the state government to invest in the provision of radiotherapy machines and guarantee more accessible cancer treatment for the citizens of the state.
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