Socioeconomic Disparities in Cancer Treatment Accessibility in Eastern Nigeria: Challenges and Policy Implications

Twesigye Davis

Department of Pharmacognosy Kampala International University Uganda

Email: twesigyedavis@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Cancer incidence in Eastern Nigeria is rising rapidly, posing significant public health challenges exacerbated by socioeconomic disparities. These inequities, including financial barriers, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, low public awareness, and cultural beliefs, contribute to late-stage diagnoses, poor treatment outcomes, and preventable mortality. Despite the region’s economic activity, the healthcare system remains ill-equipped to meet the growing demand for cancer care, particularly for rural populations and marginalized communities. This review examines the multifaceted factors contributing to cancer treatment inaccessibility in Eastern Nigeria, exploring the role of income, education, geographic location, and cultural attitudes. It identifies key challenges such as financial constraints, inadequate cancer care facilities, and educational gaps, while offering policy recommendations aimed at improving access to diagnosis and treatment. The proposed solutions include enhancing healthcare infrastructure, promoting universal health coverage, leveraging public-private partnerships, and increasing cancer awareness through culturally tailored public health campaigns. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms to address these disparities, ultimately improving cancer care and health outcomes in Eastern Nigeria.

Keywords: Cancer treatment, socioeconomic disparities, healthcare infrastructure.

CITE AS: Twesigye Davis (2025). Socioeconomic Disparities in Cancer Treatment Accessibility in Eastern Nigeria: Challenges and Policy Implications. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 5(1):46-50. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJSES/2025/514650