Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre and Specialist Hospital have partnered with Leadway Health HMO to provide comprehensive medical insurance for patients. Chairman of Marcelle Ruth, Mr Bolaji Odunsi, while speaking at a press conference in Lagos, explained that the partnership with Leadway Health HMO was meant to make healthcare accessible to many Nigerians who desire global standard healthcare with its facility comparable to any around the world. Odunsi said, “At Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre & Specialist Hospital, we take great pride in our reputation as the premier institution for the care and treatment of cancer in Nigeria. With cutting-edge technology, a dedicated team of experts, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, we have set the standard for compassionate and comprehensive healthcare solutions. “This has been a dream of mine and I am delighted that I have been able to embark on this journey with Leadway Health HMO.”
Nigeria records an estimated 102,000 new cases of cancer annually. The World Health Organization says cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 9.6 million deaths. The cancer burden continues to grow globally, exerting tremendous physical, emotional, and financial strain on individuals, families, communities, and health systems. Odunsi emphasized the accessibility and affordability which Marcelle Ruth provides saying, “At Marcelle Ruth, our mission is to redefine cancer care in Nigeria by providing accessible, world-class treatment options.” “There’s no need to travel abroad for any type of treatment including cancer treatments, Marcelle Ruth is here to provide all facilities needed, especially when the protocols you would find being followed abroad is the same you see in motion here”
He said periodic testing and examinations to combat any type of cancer, especially in certain criteria of people, was very necessary “One out of four men will be diagnosed to have prostate cancer, so it is essential for men to come in to test for prostate cancer especially when close to and above the age of 40”. Speaking further Odunsi said, “Looking ahead, Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre & Specialist Hospital is poised to embark on a ground-breaking initiative that will further expand our capabilities and redefine cancer treatment in Nigeria. “We are thrilled to announce our plans to introduce stem cell transplantation services, aimed at providing advanced treatment options for individuals battling bone marrow and blood cancers. “Stem cell transplantation, also known as bone marrow transplantation, offers a promising avenue for the treatment of various hematologic malignancies, including leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. “This innovative procedure involves the transplantation of healthy stem cells to replace damaged or diseased cells in the bone marrow, thereby restoring the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells and effectively combat cancer”, he said.
Odunsi further emphasized Marcelle Ruth’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of cancer care, ensuring patients have access to the most advanced and effective treatment options available. Chief Executive Officer of Leadway Health HMO, Dr Olatokunbo Alli, said, “Together, we are pioneering a new standard of excellence in cancer treatment, one that is characterized by compassion, innovation, and needs. “In Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre & Specialist Hospital, we see a beacon of hope and an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals in need of support and even those who seek to take preventive measures by investing in endeavors for the future. “Marcelle Ruth’s reputation as the premier institution for cancer treatment and care in Nigeria precedes it, and we are proud to partner with them on this noble endeavor of providing comprehensive health insurance to Nigerians.”
One of the key components of the partnership between Marcelle Ruth and Leadway Health is the introduction of comprehensive health insurance coverage. This coverage will include benefits such as telemedicine and teleconsultation, hospitalization benefits, maternity care, immunizations, and coverage for major diseases, including cancer. Alli added, “Comprehensive health insurance coverage is essential for ensuring that all Nigerians have access to the care they need when they need it. “Through our partnership with Marcelle Ruth, we are committed to providing Nigerians with peace of mind, knowing that they have access to top-tier medical services at an affordable rate.”
The National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan (2018-2022) has revealed that cancer is responsible for 72,000 deaths in the country annually, with a reported 102,000 new cases each year. In Nigeria, with a population of about 220 million people, complex diseases such as cancer are currently emerging as critical healthcare priorities in the present and for the future. Breast cancer accounted for the highest mortality rate, followed by prostate cancer. The WHO predicts that “the number of people being diagnosed will be about 50 per cent higher.”
