The African HepatoPancreatoBiliary Cancer Consortium on Tuesday, donated equipment from its 2022 pilot cancer research conducted through a team headed by Professor Edith Okeke to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH). This is aimed at strengthening cancer research and treatment.
Professor Edith Okeke is the Principal Investigator heading the African Hepatopancreatobiliary Neoplasia Study Team of Researchers, formed in 2020 and sited in JUTH, that came together to research on cancer of the liver, pancreas and biliary tract (hepatopancreatobiliary). The research for these cancers are important in Africa because their causes are common in Nigeria e.g. alcohol and the deaths are high. Professor Edith Okeke presented a -80°C refrigerator and an accompanying set of solar panels and batteries as a donation for the purpose of research into the early detection and treatment of cancer patients in the Jos University Teaching Hospital.
Dr. Makpu Jireh who is a member of the research team, said the team’s major interest is to understand cancer, how it develops, and how it can be detected early, particularly liver and pancreatic cancers.
According to him, the researchers are working to establish a liver and pancreatic cancer registry, in collaboration with surgeons, to better understand the peculiar nature of these cancers. This involves collecting tissues and blood samples from cancer patients for detailed study which can be stored in the refrigerator to preserve it.
Dr. Makpu Jireh noted that with the newly donated -80°C refrigerator, samples can now be properly preserved, while selected tissues may also be transported to partner laboratories in Western countries for analysis, all aiming at improving patient treatment.
He added that the solar-powered liquid nitrogen battery system would ensure a stable power supply for the -80°C refrigerator.
The Chief Medical Director (CMD), Dr. Pokop Bupwatda, responded by saying that the equipment would enhance the hospital’s capacity to treat cancer patients, while also enabling JUTH staff to actively participate in ongoing and future research activities.
Speaking on behalf of JUTH management, he expressed gratitude to Professor Edith OKeke and Professor Lewis Roberts for the donation, noting that the gesture would significantly support research sustainability and improve service delivery. The CMD also appreciated the research team for the donation and reaffirmed JUTH’s commitment to sustaining the partnership and continuing collaborative research efforts with the consortium.
GALLERY
