Abstract A124: NICRAT: The institute pioneering a new approach to cancer research and treatment in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Abstract Background: Cancer is a major public health challenge in several sub-Saharan African countries, and some of these nations have established their national cancer institutes as a focal point to address this threat. Similarly, the Nigerian government founded the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT) in 2017. The purpose of this report is to provide an understanding of the opportunities in establishing a new cancer institute in Nigeria, the most populous Black country in the world and the most populous country in Africa. We reviewed the history, mission and strategy of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT). Methods: The data sources reviewed were publications in professional journals, government reports, news articles, and the NICRAT website. Results: Some of the concerns that justified the establishment and initiation of a national cancer institute in Nigeria include the lack of a coordinated effort to study and combat the disease in Nigeria. The NICRAT was created to centralize cancer research efforts, provide funding for cancer research, and coordinate research activities across the country. These institutes are a science-based governmental institutions dedicated to cancer research, prevention, and treatment. Accordingly, the institution will promote the fight against cancer, providing a centralized focus for cancer research and treatment efforts, and facilitating collaboration between researchers, healthcare providers, and patients, as well as guidance for cancer policy formulation and implementation for decision-makers. Modelled on the US National Cancer Institute (NCI), the NICRAT has institutionalised Nigeria’s capacity to coordinate research efforts to support the use of evidence-based practices in designated Cancer Centers to reduce the impact of cancer. The NICRAT is also the focal point for the implementation of the National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP), and will coordinate the National System of Cancer Registries and the Cancer Health Fund. Discussion: Cancer institutes in sub-Saharan Africa are currently in early stages of evolution. Over the next 5 years, NICRAT’s mission is to work in partnership with other arms of Government and partners to continue its efforts in advancing cancer research, prevention, and treatment. The NICRAT will also focus on improving cancer care delivery and access to care, enhancing cancer prevention and education efforts, and strengthening collaborations with international partners to address the cancer challenge. How successful the institute becomes in its mission will be determined by its capacity to develop the right partnerships, including with the private sector, adopting innovative approaches, and mobilising adequate resources. Building a national cancer institute requires strong commitment, planning and action. The experience of setting up the NICRAT can inform similar efforts in other African countries. Citation Format: Sani A. Malami, Usman M. Aliyu, Uchechukwu E. Nwokwu, Waziri U. Mohammed. NICRAT: The institute pioneering a new approach to cancer research and treatment in sub-Saharan Africa [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A124.