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Welcome to PinkRibbon Nigeria

You’re not alone. This page shares key facts about common female cancers in Nigeria, survival stats, health initiatives, and trusted support organisations. Our mission is to ensure every woman has access to awareness, early detection, and compassionate care.

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Cancer statistics
& survival rates

Breast Cancer
41.2 cases per 100,000 women.
Leading cause of cancer-related deaths (>32,200 new cases, ~16,300 deaths annually).
Survival rates low due to late-stage presentation and limited treatment access.
Cervical Cancer
26.2 cases per 100,000 women.
One of the lowest 1-year survival rates globally (~32.9%).
Ovarian Cancer
4.7 cases per 100,000 women.
Endometrial (Corpus Uteri) Cancer
3.0 cases per 100,000 women.

### Systemic Challenges

Late Diagnosis: Low screening coverage and awareness lead to advanced-stage detection.
Limited Access to Care: Shortage of oncology specialists and facilities, especially in rural areas.
Financial Constraints: High out-of-pocket costs deter timely treatment.
Cultural Stigma: Misconceptions and social stigma hinder early detection and discussion.

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Recent research
& Initiatives

  • Recent Research

    Breast Cancer Genetics: Research shows a higher prevalence of aggressive subtypes (e.g., triple-negative breast cancer) among Nigerian women, linked to genetic factors.
    Survival Prediction Models: Studies using Nigerian hospital data have developed models to predict breast cancer survival, helping personalize treatment.
    Innovative Screening Tools: Development of wearable technologies like smart bras designed for early detection in resource-limited settings.

    Learn more

Support organizations

  • Support Organisations

    CancerAware Nigeria: Focuses on breast and cervical cancer awareness, providing free screenings and education. canceraware.org.ng
    Project PINK BLUE: Offers patient navigation, advocacy, free screenings, and runs Nigeria’s first cancer toll-free helpline (08000CANCER). projectpinkblue.org
    Medicaid Cancer Foundation: Founded by Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; funds treatments and conducts awareness campaigns. medicaidcancerfoundation.org
    Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN): Engages in public education, advocacy, and patient support. brecan.org
    OCI Foundation: Runs the Arm Our Youths (ArOY) initiative, integrating anti-cancer education into secondary schools. ocifoundation.org

Accessing cancer screening and treatment

Where to get screened

These services are part of the national screening program “Prolamvano” (meaning “I Prevent”)

Learn more

  • **Where to Get Screened**

    While Nigeria has limited nationwide screening programs, services are available in hospitals and clinics:
    Breast Cancer: Women aged 40–75 advised to have mammography every two years.
    Cervical Cancer: Screening is available but not universally organized nationally.
    Colorectal Cancer: Limited screening coverage, but services exist in some facilities.

    **Appointment Needed?
    Yes. Book through local health centers or with a general practitioner.**

    **What to Bring:**

    National ID (e.g., passport)
    Health insurance card (if applicable)
    Previous medical records

    **Hotline Numbers:**

    Contact your local health center or the Ministry of Health for screening details.

    Learn more
Support is nearby

Hotline numbers

Typical Hours: Monday–Friday during standard business hours (confirm locally).

Where to get treatment

  • Where to Go

    Public Hospitals: Many have oncology departments offering multidisciplinary cancer care.

    **Specialised Cancer Centres: Such as the Medical Radiological Research Center in Obninsk (note: appears possibly misattributed—Nigerian specialized centers include teaching hospitals and university centers with oncology units).**


    **Government Coverage:**

    Nigeria’s public health system covers chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.
    Co-payments may apply, with a “hardship exemption” system capping out-of-pocket costs relative to income.

    **Note:
    Waiting times and access to specialist care can vary widely. Patients should discuss treatment timelines with providers.**

Financial support

  •

    **Government Schemes:**

    Health insurance covers major treatments with income-based caps.
    “Hardship exemption” system reduces out-of-pocket costs for low-income patients.
    NGO Assistance:
    Many NGOs provide screening, treatment funding, and patient navigation services.
    Patients should consult hospital social workers or health insurance providers for personalized assistance.

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