NHIA Urges Nigerian Women to Prioritise Early Breast Cancer Detection

As Nigeria joins the global observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the National Health Insurance Authority has urged women to pay greater attention to their breast health and seek medical attention early when they notice unusual changes. The call came alongside measures by the Authority to reduce the financial burden of cancer treatment for eligible insured patients. Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Nigerian women and one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the country.

According to figures cited by the NHIA from the Global Cancer Observatory, Nigeria records an estimated 32,278 new breast cancer cases and 16,332 deaths annually. Late presentation remains a major challenge, with many patients seeking care only after the disease has advanced. The high cost of diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and specialised medicines, can also place considerable financial pressure on patients and their families.

In a statement marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the NHIA said it had strengthened financial protection for insured cancer patients through an enhanced partnership with pharmaceutical company Roche. Under the arrangement, Roche covers 50 per cent of the cost of selected oncology medicines, while the NHIA contributes 30 per cent. Eligible insured patients are responsible for the remaining 20 per cent. The Authority also provides additional support for radiotherapy, ranging from up to N400,000 to full coverage for eligible patients.

Cancer-related services covered under the relevant health insurance packages include mammography, CT and MRI scans, bone scans and laboratory investigations, while support may also extend to screening, surgery, chemotherapy and follow-up care. The measures form part of wider efforts under the Nigeria National Cancer Control Plan 2026–2030 to improve cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment.

The NHIA, under its Director-General, Dr Kelechi Ohiri, stressed that reducing the country’s breast cancer burden would require women to seek care promptly when they notice changes in their breasts. Women are encouraged to watch for unusual changes such as a new lump, changes in breast size or shape, unusual nipple discharge, skin changes, or other persistent abnormalities. Although such changes do not necessarily indicate cancer, medical evaluation is important, as early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the complexity and cost of care. For women enrolled in health insurance, the Authority has also encouraged them to understand the cancer-related benefits available under their specific packages and identify designated facilities where they can access treatment.

However, experts and health authorities have repeatedly stressed that awareness alone will not be enough to address the country’s cancer burden. Greater access to screening and diagnostic services, affordable treatment and specialised oncology care remains essential, particularly for women living outside major urban centres. 

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, the message to Nigerian women is clear: knowing the warning signs, seeking medical attention early and having access to affordable treatment can make a significant difference. With early detection and timely care, breast cancer can be treated more effectively, giving more women the opportunity to survive and live healthy lives after diagnosis.