Medical experts in the field of colorectal cancer said the disease is preventable if diagnosed early.
A statement signed by MedServe, a healthcare subsidiary of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, on Saturday, said renowned Hepatobiliary Surgeon and Professor at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Dr Peter Kingham and others spoke during a lecture on colorectal cancer organised by MedServe in collaboration with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre and the Africa Research Group for Oncology in Lagos.
According to AI overview, colorectal cancer is a cancer that develops in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. It’s also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer.
Kingham delivered a presentation titled, ‘Colorectal cancer-updates on early diagnosis and treatment.
The statement said he explained the latest advancements in the early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer.
Kingham shared data indicating that by 2050, 70 per cent of the predicted cancer cases in LMICs will be colorectal cancer.
He stressed the need for context-specific research and interventions, as most current guidelines are based on data from high-income countries.
His presentation highlighted the challenges of CRC screening in Nigeria, including the lack of prospective trials and the high false-positive rates of fecal immunochemical tests.
Kingham discussed ongoing efforts to develop innovative, cost-effective screening methods, such as urine metabolite testing and point-of-care blood tests, which could revolutionise early diagnosis in resource-limited settings.
The statement read, “Kingham provided updates on the latest treatment modalities, particularly immunotherapy for mismatch repair-deficient (MMRd) colorectal cancer.
“He shared promising results from clinical trials showing that PD-1 blockade therapy could lead to complete responses in localised rectal cancer, potentially eliminating the need for chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery in some cases.”
It added, “Following the lecture, a panel discussion led by Dr. Adedayo Joseph, Prof. Olusegun Isaac Alatise, and Dr. Adedapo Osinowo (Dapo Osinowo) sparked insightful conversations among specialists.
“The panel reinforced the need for continued research, collaboration, and action to address the growing burden of colorectal cancer in Nigeria. Key takeaways included the importance of public awareness campaigns, the development of local screening programs, and the need for increased funding for cancer research and treatment in LMICs.”
The statement added that the CEO of MedServe, Dr. Tolu Adewole, thanked all participants and emphasised the importance of continued collaboration in the fight against colorectal cancer.
She added, “Together, we can make a difference. ”
She urged stakeholders to drive awareness, early diagnosis, and improved treatment options for colorectal cancer patients in Nigeria and beyond. (Punch)
