A landmark clinical trial is underway in Nigeria, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Obafemi Awolowo University, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Medserve and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre. The trial investigates PD-1 blockade immunotherapy in patients with mismatch-repair-deficient colorectal cancer. The trial was approved by the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC)—the organization responsible for ensuring that all health research conducted in Nigeria is ethical and globally compliant—and by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the organisation that regulates and controls the manufacture, importation, exportation, distribution, advertisement, sale, and use of food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, packaged water, chemicals and detergents in Nigeria.
This is a moment of great pride for the University of Ibadan (UI) College of Medicine! Three distinguished UI College of Medicine alumni: Dr Lilian Ekpo, Dr Zainab Yunusa-Kaltungo and Dr Tolu Adewole are instrumental in this initiative. They are part of a groundbreaking clinical trial that’s set to revolutionise colorectal cancer treatment in Nigeria. Their expertise underscores the institution’s commitment to advancing cancer research and treatment.
Dr Abraham Ariyo, a UI College of Medicine alumnus and cardiologist based in the US, shared this exciting news with me. We’d connected online about 4 months ago, bonding over our shared interest in UI and the College of Medicine. As he said, “I have read your pieces about Ibadanland and the University of Ibadan, especially about Profs. Ronke Baiyeroju and Olayinka Omigbodun. You are interested in UI and Ibadan. You are engaging in similar efforts with me regarding the alumni of the Ibadan College of Medicine. I appreciate you.” He’s been sharing stories about notable alumni achievements and this immunotherapy trial is the latest feat!
Back to the basics! This trial is a major turning point in Nigeria’s fight against cancer, with potential implications for sub-Saharan Africa. Alumni contributions reinforce the UI College of Medicine’s reputation as a hub for innovative research.
This trial’s success could establish Nigeria as a frontrunner in cancer research, demonstrating the nation’s capacity to tackle urgent health concerns. Kudos to the UI College of Medicine for nurturing talented professionals who are making a difference!
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The trial is partially funded by the Thompson Family Foundation. Co-principal investigator Prof. Olusegun Isaac Alatise says, “The approval marks an important milestone in the fight against colorectal cancer in Nigeria.” Co-principal investigator Prof. Fatimah Abdulkareem adds, “This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to advancing cancer care.”
MSK’s Global Cancer Research and Training programme partnered with OAU Teaching Hospital in 2013 to establish the African Research Group for Oncology. Dr T. Peter Kingham says, “We hope this trial will lead to a similar shift in treatment possibilities for Nigerian colorectal cancer patients.”
Dr Tolulope Adewole, Medserve CEO, emphasises, “Quality oncology care should not be a privilege; it must be the minimum standard irrespective of location.”
If any advanced medical innovation occurs in Nigeria, UI alumni are likely behind it. They might not always be in the spotlight, but they are driving progress.
Globally, colorectal cancer is a significant issue, and Nigeria is not an exception, with less than half of Nigerian patients with colorectal cancer living one year after diagnosis. Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that typically affects the colon or rectum, often presenting with no symptoms at first. But when it progresses, it can be tough to treat.
Some common signs to watch out for are changes in bowel habits (like diarrhoea or constipation); blood in stool or rectal bleeding; abdominal pain or cramps; unexplained weight loss; and Fatigue
Risk factors include age (50+); family history; diet (low fibre, high processed meat); lack of exercise; and smoking and heavy drinking.
Screening is key! Procedures like colonoscopies can catch it early when it is more treatable. The good news is that research is advancing, and treatments like immunotherapy (like the trial mentioned above) are offering new hope. Stay proactive about your health, and get checked if you’re due!
Tunji Oladejo, mnipr, JP, writes from the University of Ibadan and is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com
