Healthcare professionals, cancer survivors, caregivers, policymakers and other advocates have called for stronger policies and support systems to improve the quality of life of people living beyond a cancer diagnosis.
The call was made at the cancer survivorship forum, ‘Beyond the Diagnosis: The Untold Realities of Cancer Survivorship and Caregiving,’ organised by the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in partnership with Project PINK BLUE in Abuja as part of its Cancer Survivorship Initiative.
Daily Trust reports that the gathering brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to examine the often-overlooked realities faced by cancer survivors and caregivers, including the physical, emotional, social and financial challenges that frequently persist long after treatment has ended.
Speaking at the gathering, Chief Medical Officer of AMCE, Dr. Aisha Umar, said cancer care must extend beyond diagnosis and treatment to include survivorship and long-term wellbeing.
She said, ‘As advances in medicine continue to improve cancer outcomes, we must ensure that survivors are not left to navigate the next chapter of their journey alone.
‘Comprehensive cancer care must address not only treatment, but also rehabilitation, mental health, social reintegration and long-term quality of life.
‘Survivorship is an essential part of the cancer care continuum, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that patients and their families receive the support they need to thrive.’
Participants shared personal experiences and professional insights on the realities of living with and beyond cancer, highlighting the resilience of survivors and the critical role caregivers play in supporting treatment and recovery.