The National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), in collaboration with the health ministry in Zamfara, organised a two-day capacity-building training for medical doctors on hepatitis.

The workshop in Gusau on Thursday attracted participants from primary and secondary healthcare centres across all 14 LGAs of Zamfara.

The training focused on new discoveries in chronic viral hepatitis and the identification, management, and referral of suspected liver cancer cases.

Aminu Abdullahi, the cancer desk officer, explained that the training aimed to raise awareness of cancer prevention among the state’s health community.

He noted that while the exact prevalence of cancer in the state could not be determined, cases were on the rise, highlighting the need for public education.

Mr Abdullahi also demonstrated the state government’s readiness to partner with any organisation to address health challenges in Zamfara.

Ibrahim Jibiril, chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association and a resource person at the workshop, warned that herbal medicine worsened cancer cases and urged the public to avoid such treatments.

He emphasised that people often neglected cancer until it became chronic, leaving survival chances almost nonexistent. He advised individuals to seek medical expertise early in any health issue to prevent complications and, in some cases, mortality.

“We must understand our health problems before starting medication. Our medical teams at primary and secondary healthcare facilities need to stay updated on recent findings related to chronic viral hepatitis and the management and referral of suspected liver cancer cases,” Mr Jibiril added.

Aminu Nahuce, lead trainer and a doctor at the Federal Medical Centre Gusau, stressed the importance of doctors recognising their limitations and referring patients promptly.

“Once a doctor confirms a case beyond their facility’s capacity, ethics require them to transfer the patient to a higher-level hospital,” Mr Nahuce explained.

He further emphasised that the primary goal of the training was to enhance awareness among healthcare personnel in primary and secondary hospitals for more effective cancer management in Zamfara.

(NAN)