By Iyemah David
The Kano State Bureau of Statistics has initiated a partnership with the Kano Cancer Care Centre and the Aminu Magashi Foundation (AMG) to address the rising concern of cancer in the state and enhance the quality of cancer care and support services.
The Statistician General of Kano State Bureau of Statistics, Dr Aliyu Isa Aliyu, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Dr Aminu Magashi Garba, Coordinator of Kano Cancer Centre, to explore the potential for cooperation in establishing a comprehensive cancer registry and directory within the state.
Dr Aliyu stated that the Kano Cancer Care Centre, known for its proficiency in cancer treatment and research, would collaborate closely with the Bureau of Statistics to collect and analyse data concerning cancer prevalence, incidence, and mortality rates in the state.
“This data will offer valuable insights into the impact of cancer on the population and assist in crafting effective strategies for prevention, early detection, and treatment.
“The AMG Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families, will contribute its resources and expertise to enhance the services provided by the Kano Cancer Care Centre.
“This collaboration ensures that cancer patients receive comprehensive and holistic care, including access to treatment, counselling, and support programs.
“The combined efforts of the Kano State Bureau of Statistics, Kano Cancer Care Centre, and AMG Foundation aim to make a substantial impact on the fight against cancer in the region.
“Their collective knowledge, resources, and networks are aimed at improving cancer care, raising awareness about the disease, and ultimately alleviating the burden of cancer on individuals and communities in Kano State,” he explained.
Dr Magashi commended this move, emphasising that the collaboration represents a positive step forward in the battle against cancer in the state.
He believes it demonstrates the commitment of these organizations to working together toward the common goal of enhancing cancer care and support services.
“Additionally, the partnership will strengthen data collection and analysis efforts, leading to improved planning, prevention, and treatment strategies in the fight against cancer in the state.
“This proposed partnership between the Bureau of Statistics, Cancer Centre, and AMG Foundation is expected to bolster the state’s capacity to combat the cancer menace and address the various challenges it poses to public health in Kano State,” he said.
It will be recalled that Cancer burden in Africa is increasing as a result of the growth and aging of the population.
Other factors associated with such increase include the presence of risk factors such as smoking, alcohol, obesity, physical inactivity, reproductive behaviour, and prevalence of certain infectious agents associated with cancer aetiology.
