The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University College Hospital (UCH), Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, yesterday said cancer was one of the three major causes of morbidity and deaths at the facility in the last three years.He made the disclosure while opening a three-day workshop organised by the Pharmacy Department of the hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State.
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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event entitled, “Pharmaceutical Care in Oncology Practice”, was to create more awareness on the scourge and proffer ways of containing its challenges.Represented by the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Dr. Victor Akinmoladun, the CMD said the other two top causes of morbidity were infectious and cardiovascular related, particularly HIV/AIDS and stroke.
According to Otegbayo, the late presentation of patients for treatment contributed significantly to the high casualties.He said: “Cancer care is multidisciplinary and pharmaceutical oncology is one of the most critical aspects.“It involves diagnosis and therapy. The hospital management is in full support of this workshop.
“ It is very relevant in helping us address some of the challenges of cancer care in the hospital.“The Department of Pharmacy has paid a lot of attention to oncological cases and we hope that the department will become the hub in pharmaceutical oncology in the country.
“A cancer centre is currently under construction to provide ease of access to cancer, clinical care, research and training and consequently strengthen all aspects of cancer care.“Through this, we hope to reduce the country’s cancer burden and ensure the survival of more patients.”
In her remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Prof. Chinyere Babalola, noted that genetically tailored cancer care would help to reduce its morbidity and mortality in the country.Calling for increased funding for cancer research in the country, she stated that pharmacists play critical role in increasing successful treatment and survival rate of patients.
Her words: “Oncology pharmacists play very crucial role in cancer patients’ care, diagnosis and therapy.“The role of pharmacists is germane to interdisciplinary cancer care. As part of a multidisciplinary team, an oncology pharmacist has major roles in assuring safe and effective drug therapy.“Cancer drugs are toxic with irreversible reactions. Pharmacists are needed in patients’ care to maximise benefits and reduce toxicity.”
