FG unveils N50m support fund for cancer patients

Nigeria's Federal Government has launched a N50 million Social Determinants of Health Fund to support cancer patients, particularly those facing non-medical challenges that impede their treatment. The initiative aims to provide timely, equitable, and accountable assistance for issues such as transportation, accommodation, and feeding.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, announced the fund's disbursement in Abuja, stating that it addresses the significant social and economic barriers that often prevent vulnerable Nigerians from accessing or completing cancer care. "The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will provide fifty million naira as government’s initial contribution to the Social Determinants of Health Fund for cancer patients," Salako said.

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The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will provide fifty million naira as government’s initial contribution to the Social Determinants of Health Fund for cancer patients.

More than 600 cancer patients have already applied for assistance, with over 200 verified through a screening process involving medical directors and physicians. Verified beneficiaries will receive a minimum of N100,000 to help alleviate the indirect costs associated with treatment. Salako noted that while the government has invested in cancer care infrastructure and awareness, these indirect costs remain a major hurdle.

These challenges disproportionately affect low-income and vulnerable populations, contributing to delayed treatment, poor adherence, and unfavorable outcomes. The fund emerged from recommendations by the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group, aiming to mitigate the catastrophic financial burden of cancer treatment globally. Disbursement will be made directly to beneficiaries to ensure transparency and effectiveness.

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The initiative was designed to provide timely, equitable and accountable support to cancer patients struggling with challenges such as transportation costs, accommodation, feeding and inadequate social support, which frequently hinder access to care.