Challenges and Recommendations for Improving Cancer Research and Practice in Nigeria

Background Cancers, with increasing incidence and mortality rates, constitute a leading public health problem in Nigeria. As the burden of cancer in Nigeria increases, research and quality service delivery remain critical strategies for improved cancer control across the continuum of care. This study contextualizes the challenges and gaps in oncology research and practice in Nigeria, and presents recommendations to address the gaps. Methods This qualitative study was conducted among interprofessional and interdisciplinary stakeholders in oncology healthcare practice and research in academic settings, between July and September 2021. Key-informant interviews were held with six stakeholders and leaders in nursing, pharmacy, and medicine across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, and twenty-four in-depth interviews with early- or mid-career researchers or healthcare professionals involved in cancer prevention and treatment were conducted. The data were analyzed using a deductive thematic analysis approach and coded using the NVIVO 12 software. Results Five sub-themes were identified as major challenges to oncology research, including poor funding, excessive workload, interprofessional rivalry, weak collaboration, and denial of cancer diagnosis by patients. Challenges identified for oncology practice were poor governance and financing, high costs of oncology treatments, poor public awareness of cancer, workforce shortage, and interprofessional conflicts. Recommended strategies for addressing these challenges were improved financing of oncology research and practice by government and relevant stakeholders, increasing interest of medical, nursing, and pharmaceutical students in oncology research through curricula-based approach and mentorship, increased oncology workforce, and improved intra- and inter-professional collaboration. Conclusion These data highlight the challenges and barriers in oncology practice and research in Nigeria, and underscore the urgent need for increased investments in infrastructure to provide interdisciplinary and interprofessional research training for high-quality care. Only then can Nigeria effectively tackle the current and impending cancer burden in the country.