Pediatric Oncology in Nigeria: A Panoramic View

Purpose: A large number of children still die as a result of cancer in low- to middle-income countries, and factors such has poor infrastructure, inadequate human resources, and poorly developed health insurance are responsible for most of these deaths. Nigeria is a country with a young population and a struggling health system. We aimed to survey pediatric oncologists in Nigeria using an online survey instrument.

Methods: We surveyed the national group of pediatric oncologists using an instrument designed to assess manpower availability, infrastructural support, support services, and presence of radiotherapy and medications.

Results: A total of 14 institutions responded, represented by 24 oncologists of the 42 oncologists on the platform, with a response rate of 57.1%. Most of the oncologists had practiced for more than 10 years, but only two institutions had a dedicated pediatric oncology ward. There was no population-based pediatric oncology tumor registry. Molecular diagnostic capability was not available, nor was a structurally efficient radiotherapy support service. The centers also struggled with inadequate blood and blood product provision.

Conclusion: Pediatric oncology services in Nigeria are still grappling with weak human capital, poorly developed infrastructure, weak regional and national referral systems, and poor support services.