UI Don Advocates for Subsidized Cancer Treatment in Inaugural Lecture

Professor Bukola Folasade Adeyemi from the University of Ibadan's Faculty of Dentistry has urged policy-makers to subsidize cancer treatment.

Jul 22, 2024 - 15:41

UI Don Advocates for Subsidized Cancer Treatment in Inaugural Lecture

In a compelling address at the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Bukola Folasade Adeyemi of the Faculty of Dentistry called for policy-makers to subsidize cancer treatment. Speaking during her 554th Inaugural Lecture, titled "Unmasking an Enemy: The Pursuit of an Oral Pathologist," Prof. Adeyemi highlighted the exorbitant costs associated with cancer care and its impact on accessibility for many Nigerians.

Professor Adeyemi, a distinguished expert in Oral Pathology, expressed concern over the high expenses of cancer treatment, which often result in patients with early-stage diseases forgoing necessary care due to financial constraints. She emphasized that the number of Nigerians unable to access treatment due to financial barriers is alarmingly high.

To address these issues, Prof. Adeyemi urged for increased public education on the signs of oral cancer and the importance of early medical intervention. She advocated for enhanced funding for research into oral squamous cell carcinoma, supported by both philanthropists and government bodies.

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In her lecture, she also stressed the need for greater public awareness about oral health, advising individuals to seek immediate medical evaluation for persistent changes in the oral or facial regions. Prof. Adeyemi recommended regular dental check-ups, ideally every six months, to detect and address potential issues early.

The inaugural lecture, part of UI's 2023/2024 academic series, demonstrated the urgency of addressing the financial and educational barriers to effective cancer treatment and prevention.