In a significant development, Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre and Specialist Hospital has joined forces with Leadway Health HMO to offer all-encompassing medical insurance coverage to patients.

This groundbreaking partnership, announced by Chairman Bolaji Odunsi at a press conference in Lagos, aims to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility for numerous Nigerians seeking world-class medical attention.

With state-of-the-art facilities rivaling those found globally, Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre and Specialist Hospital is poised to provide top-tier care, now more accessible than ever, thanks to the collaboration with Leadway Health HMO.

This synergy promises to revolutionize healthcare in Nigeria, ensuring that individuals receive the best possible treatment, on par with international standards.

Odunsi stated, “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 faces a significant cancer burden, with approximately 102,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Globally, cancer is the second leading cause of death, responsible for around 9.6 million fatalities annually, according to the World Health Organisation.

The growing cancer burden worldwide puts immense pressure on individuals, families, communities, and healthcare systems, causing substantial physical, emotional, and financial distress.

However, Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre and Specialist Hospital is bridging the gap by providing accessible and affordable cancer care, emphasizing that quality treatment should be within reach for all, regardless of financial means.

“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”

Odunsi emphasized the importance of regular testing and examinations to detect and prevent various types of cancer, particularly among specific groups of people. “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”

He further emphasized that, “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 pointed out.

Odunsi reiterated Marcelle Ruth’s commitment to innovation and excellence in cancer care, striving to provide patients with cutting-edge and evidence-based treatment options, and continuously exploring new frontiers in cancer management to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

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 characterised 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 endeavours 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 endeavour of providing comprehensive health insurance to Nigerians.”

A crucial aspect of the collaboration between Marcelle Ruth and Leadway Health is the launch of an all-inclusive health insurance package.

This extensive coverage encompasses a range of benefits, including virtual healthcare services (telemedicine and teleconsultation), hospitalization expenses, maternity care, vaccination programs, and protection against major illnesses, notably cancer, to provide individuals with comprehensive financial protection and access to quality healthcare.

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.”

Nigeria is grappling with a significant cancer burden, as revealed by the National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan (2018-2022). The stark reality is that cancer claims 72,000 lives annually, with 102,000 new cases emerging each year. With a population of approximately 220 million, Nigeria is facing a growing healthcare challenge, as complex diseases like cancer are increasingly becoming a priority concern, both currently and for the future.

Breast cancer stands out as the leading cause of cancer deaths, closely followed by prostate cancer. Alarmingly, the World Health Organization forecasts a 50% surge in cancer diagnoses, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced cancer care and prevention strategies.

the number of people being diagnosed will be about 50 per cent higher.”