Civil society groups in the health sector have raised concerns over a looming crisis due to the rising number of undocumented cancer cases, warning that the situation could escalate without immediate intervention.
Speaking on Tuesday during the commemoration of World Cancer Day, themed “United by Unique,” the groups emphasized the need for patient-centred care and called on the government to allocate more resources to tackle the growing burden of cancer.
Emi Omunene, a multifaceted health advocate, psychologist, and author, urged stakeholders to work together in addressing the crisis, stating, “No matter what, 2025 shall be the best year.” Omunene, an expert in natural therapy and a champion for tuberculosis (TB) and cancer awareness, underscored the urgency of tackling the surge in undocumented cancer cases.
She also expressed concern over the recent funding cuts by the U.S. government, noting that programs under HIV, TB, and reproductive health—long instrumental in cancer prevention—are particularly affected. “The USA has been a key supporter of HIV-related cancer prevention through USAID programs,” she explained. “With reduced funding, we risk an increase in HIV-related cancers, TB infections, and declining cancer treatment outcomes.”
Omunene called for increased domestic financing, urging collaboration between the government and private sector to ensure the sustainability of critical health programs.
“We cannot afford to rely solely on foreign aid. If funding is withdrawn, we must have sustainable, homegrown solutions to keep vital health programs running,” she stated.
Highlighting the interconnected nature of diseases, she explained how TB, an opportunistic infection, poses a heightened risk to cancer patients with weakened immune systems.
“Cancer, HIV, and TB are not separate battles,” she warned. “They are intertwined, and any disruption in healthcare funding affects all three.”
With cancer cases on the rise and financial constraints threatening essential health programs, stakeholders are urging swift action to prevent a full-blown health crisis.
