Association advises cancer patients against alternative medicine

Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) on Thursday advised cancer patients taking alternative medicine to be careful.

The acting president of MWAN, Dr Ibironke Sodeinde told the Newsmen  in Lagos that caution should be applied in the use of uncensored herbs to avoid systemic speed of cancer.

Sodeinde said that it depends on how you define an alternative medicine in the management of cancer or alternative cancer treatment.

The acting president said that consuming natural non-toxic substance to boost immunity or detoxify was allowed especially at the last stage.

Sodeinde said that any subjected useful organic substances, elements or herbs should not be disregarded rather be subjected to intensive research to ascertain their optimal benefits and push for appropriate regulations and control.

Also, she said that the role of primary healthcare in the management of cancer was very germane.

“Looking at it from various perspectives, promoting health as regards preventive care, use of necessary facilities for early diagnosis and counseling is essential.

“Complimentary role to patients with established centers in terms of sustainable health care and delivery” she said.

She said that follow up on rehabilitation, palliative care with the support of their immediate families and relatives were necessary for primary health center.

Sodeinde said that advocacy at all levels in the community through various channels of communication and not during public health days or events should be put in place.