Kano Cancer Treatment Centre has launched advanced 3D high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy services, marking a major milestone in oncology care for Northern Nigeria. The new therapy system, unveiled on Friday in Kano, represents a significant step toward improving access to modern cancer treatment in the region.
Brachytherapy is a specialised form of radiation therapy that delivers targeted doses directly to cancerous tissues. The facility’s Chief Executive Officer and Administrator, Dr. Nafisa Abdu, described the introduction of this technology as the first of its kind in Northern Nigeria. “This is a focused radiation treatment that complements external radiotherapy,” she said, adding that it will play a crucial role in treating cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting women in the region.
Dr. Abdu acknowledged that cancer treatment is generally expensive due to the cost of equipment, manpower, and safety requirements. However, she emphasised the centre’s commitment to making care as accessible as possible. She noted that having such a facility in Kano would significantly reduce indirect costs for patients, who can now access treatment close to home without the burden of travel, accommodation, and other expenses associated with seeking care elsewhere.
Medical physicist Abbas Umar Farouk explained that the centre uses advanced 3D planning systems to ensure accurate treatment delivery. “Our role is to ensure quality assurance throughout the treatment processā€”from patient care to equipment performance and staff safety,” he said. “We use CT simulation and 3D planning to precisely target tumours while protecting healthy organs.”
Radiation oncologist Dr. Aminu Ladan highlighted the importance of completing the full radiation dose required to effectively control cancer. “Before now, patients had to travel far after completing external beam radiation to access brachytherapy. Now, once we finish the external treatment, patients can immediately proceed with brachytherapy here,” he said. “This ensures they receive the full dose needed for effective treatment.” He added that cervical cancer patients typically undergo three to four sessions over a period of about two weeks.
Lead radiation therapist Peter Emana highlighted the centre’s advanced technology, including multiple functional linear accelerators and modern techniques such as image-guided radiotherapy. “This allows us to see precisely where we are treating, reducing side effects and improving recovery,” he said. He explained that brachytherapy is particularly effective for cancers located near sensitive organs. “For example, in cervical cancer, the bladder and rectum are very close to the tumour. Brachytherapy allows us to deliver radiation directly into the tumour while minimising damage to surrounding tissues.”
The facility is equipped with reinforced radiation shielding to ensure the safety of both patients and staff, further underscoring its commitment to high standards of care.
