Abuja: The Federal Government has inaugurated the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Fund, committing N50 million to support cancer patients nationwide. This initiative, announced by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, aims to provide equitable and timely assistance to address non-medical barriers hindering patients from accessing and completing cancer treatment across Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the fund is designed to tackle challenges such as transportation, feeding, and accommodation costs that often delay treatment and worsen health outcomes for cancer patients. Dr. Salako emphasized that the intervention targets critical support gaps, enhancing the ability of patients to initiate and complete their treatment.
The SDOH initiative was approved following recommendations from the National Cancer Control Plan Technical Working Group (TWG) and is set to complement existing cancer interventions and strengthen patient support mechanisms. In a show of commitment to reducing the national cancer burden by 2030, the fund’s inauguration coincides with Cancer Survivors Month.
Dr. Salako further explained that more than 400 cancer patients have applied for support, with over 200 verified beneficiaries set to receive payments within their respective geopolitical zones. He has directed the TWG to ensure that verified applicants receive at least N100,000 to alleviate barriers to accessing cancer care.
Ms. Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary, described the fund as a practical intervention addressing the multifaceted challenges cancer patients face. She noted that health outcomes are influenced not only by treatment but also by accessibility factors like transportation and accommodation.
Prof. Folakemi Odedina, Chairperson of the NCCP Technical Working Group, hailed the programme as a significant step in translating Nigeria’s national cancer strategy into actionable support for patients. She highlighted the establishment of advisory councils, integration hubs, and communication platforms to ensure transparency and stakeholder participation.
Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, President of the Nigerian Cancer Society, and cancer survivors like Mercy Agu and Gloria Nwadiogu expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to alleviate financial burdens and humanize patient care. Agu noted the high costs of cancer treatment, while Nwadiogu praised the fund for recognizing patients as individuals beyond their medical challenges.
The SDOH Fund, implemented under the NCCP 2026-2030, aims to help patients overcome non-medical barriers to cancer care, reflecting the government’s commitment to a patient-centered approach to cancer treatment.