Usman Aliyu, the director-general of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), has assured Nigerians of improved cancer research and treatment.

“I am assuring all Nigerians of the preparedness of NICRAT to improve cancer research and treatment in the days ahead,” Mr Aliyu said in Abuja as he congratulated the Muslims for completing the Ramadan fast.

He congratulated cancer patients, their relatives, doctors working in the cancer space, health advocates, and NGOs.

“I am, therefore, using this opportunity to call on Nigerians to take their health seriously and go for regular checks,” Mr Aliyu. “This will nip in the bud any disease, especially cancer, before it reaches an uncontrollable stage.”

Mr Aliyu also assured that NICRAT would ensure that challenges around cancer care and research witnessed a dramatic improvement.

The NICRAT chief stressed that cancer is treatable and curable, especially when detected early and urged Nigerians to visit a nearby health facility for checks whenever they noticed any abnormal feelings in their bodies.

“This is necessary because cancer treatment and management is capital intensive,” Mr Aliyu added.

(NAN)