Cost of Radiotherapy in Nigeria

In recent times, Nigeria has witnessed a significant rise in reported cancer cases, bringing attention to the need for effective treatment options. While the causes of this surge remain unidentified, there is a ray of hope in the form of radiotherapy, an impactful method for managing and sometimes even curing cancer. However, the accessibility and high costs associated with this treatment pose significant challenges in the country’s medical sector.

Cost of Radiotherapy in Nigeria:

The overall cost of radiotherapy in Nigeria is influenced by various factors, including the type of cancer, the number of doses, the hospital’s location, and the specific radiation therapy employed. Radiotherapy is generally expensive due to the involvement of complex machines and the collaboration of multiple medical practitioners. On average, a full radiotherapy session can range from N300,000 to N1 million, depending on the cancer type, required doses, and additional prescribed medications.

Understanding Radiotherapy:

Radiotherapy, also known as Radiation therapy, utilizes invisible high-energy rays or subatomic particle beams to destroy cancerous cells, preventing their growth and division. A specialized medical professional known as a radiation oncologist oversees this treatment.

There are two main types of radiotherapy: External and Internal. External radiation therapy is typically administered on an outpatient basis, while internal radiation therapy requires the patient to stay in the hospital for a few days, with the implant being either temporary or permanent.

Side Effects of Radiotherapy:

While radiotherapy effectively addresses various cancers, it comes with certain side effects, varying based on factors such as cancer type, its location, radiation therapy dose, and the patient’s overall health. Advances in radiation therapy have increased accuracy, minimizing side effects to the treated area. Common side effects include skin problems, such as itching, dryness, and peeling, which usually subside a few weeks after treatment.

Fatigue is another side effect, with its severity dependent on the treatment plan. Unlike chemotherapy, radiotherapy typically does not cause hair loss, although radiation therapy to the scalp may lead to it.

Long-term side effects are generally rare but can occur. Some short-term side effects may persist, potentially developing into other health issues. In very rare cases, they may even lead to a secondary cancer.

Radiation Recall:

One severe side effect is radiation recall, presenting as a rash resembling a serious sunburn. This rare occurrence happens with intense chemo or radiotherapy, appearing on the area concentrated with radiation. Symptoms include redness, swelling, wet sores, and peeling, with severity depending on cancer type, radiation intensity, and therapy type.

Conclusion:

As Nigeria grapples with the rising burden of cancer cases, understanding radiotherapy’s costs, types, and potential side effects becomes crucial. While the treatment offers hope, addressing the accessibility and affordability challenges is paramount to ensuring effective cancer care for all.