Experts and some patient support organisations have called for increased funding for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), warning that the growing burden of chronic illnesses is placing severe financial strain on Nigerians.

They made the call during the National Hypertension/NCDs media and patients advocacy orientation, organised by the National NCD Patients Advocacy Group and supported by the Legislative Initiative for Sustainable Development (LISDEL), on Friday in Abuja.

A haematologist, Chi-Kadibia Ukoma, founder of the Leukaemia Care Plus Initiative and vice president of the Nigerian Cancer Society, said NCDs such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and sickle cell disease were rapidly overtaking infectious diseases and affecting nearly every household.

“The burden is enormous. Almost all of us are affected in one way or another. If you do not have hypertension, you might have diabetes, cancer, or another chronic disease, and the cost of managing these conditions is extremely high,” he said.

He noted that treatment expenses often result in catastrophic health spending, adding that many patients struggle to sustain long-term care regardless of their income level.

The haematologist also described the patient voice in NCD advocacy as inadequate, stressing that funding available for prevention and treatment remained only a fraction of what was required.

“The government needs to put more effort and funding into catering to this because it affects the entirety of Nigeria. Almost all of us are affected in one way or another,” he said.

Mr Ukoma, therefore, urged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles, regular medical screening, and early treatment, emphasising that cancer was not a death sentence when detected early and properly managed.

Tulari Tine, representing the Hypertension Society of Nigeria, said increased funding for NCDs will improve access to healthcare and medication, as well as awareness campaigns to educate Nigerians about their risks and management.

Mr Tine added that these would help to reduce the burden of hypertension and other NCDs, as well as improve health outcomes.

Also, Akomah-Charles Ugonna, executive director of the Benedicx Better Life Initiative, an NGO that cares for vulnerable women, girls, and youths, noted the increasing number of persons with NCDs, especially the aged.

Ms Ugonna, a registered nurse at a primary healthcare centre, noted the lack of NCD data, which she said had affected the government and other stakeholders in making informed decisions to address the diseases.

“While significant interventions and support have been provided for HIV, NCDs must also be given equal priority. The government should strengthen support for PHCs.

“We therefore call on government at all levels to collaborate with civil society organisations to reduce the growing burden of non-communicable diseases,” she said.

Other activities include technical sessions on “Who and What About: NCD Policy and Stakeholder Landscape in Nigeria,” by Alayo Sopekan, director of NCDs at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Also, Marcel Sati, representing the Budget Office of the Federation, made a presentation on Public Financial Management: Budget Cycle, Advocacy, and Tracking Techniques.

(NAN)