The emotional appeal from the daughters of veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, has brought renewed attention to stage 4 cancer in Nigeria.

In videos shared on Instagram on Monday, Lima and Kira Taiwo said hospitals had declined to continue treating their father and that doctors had said chemotherapy was no longer an option.

They appealed for medical professionals, alternative treatment options, and prayers.

While every cancer case is different and no one can predict outcomes, when stage-four cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it does not automatically mean ‘no hope’. Treatment goals often shift to extending life, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life.

According to the cancer news platform Binaytara (https://binaytara.org/cancernews/article/does-stage-4-cancer-always-mean-the-end-matthew-meranda), stage four cancer is serious, but it no longer automatically means death.

The platform explains that while any cancer diagnosis is devastating, the term “stage 4” carries particular weight for patients and their families.

However, it notes that “stage 4” and “terminal” are not the same thing.

In medicine, stage four means the cancer has spread from where it started to other parts of the body.

Treatment at this stage often focuses on controlling the disease, managing symptoms, and extending life rather than curing it.

Here are five approaches that can help stage four patients:

1. Seek a second opinion from a specialist oncology centre

Hospitals sometimes decline further chemo if a patient is too frail or if prior treatments failed. But a second opinion at a comprehensive cancer centre can open other options: targeted therapy, immunotherapy, clinical trials, or palliative chemo with lower doses.

In Ogogo’s case, his daughters said they are open to ‘anyone willing to treat him’.

2. Explore palliative and supportive care early

Palliative care is not ‘giving up’. It focuses on pain management, nutrition, mental health, and symptom control so patients can live as comfortably as possible. Studies show that patients who start palliative care early alongside treatment often live longer and with better quality of life.

3. Consider clinical trials and targeted/precision medicine:

Stage four treatment has changed in the last 5 years. Depending on the cancer type, targeted drugs or immunotherapy can work even when chemo stops working. Clinical trials in Nigeria and abroad test new drugs and are often free to participants.

Getting a biopsy and molecular testing to determine the exact cancer type is the first step.

4. Integrate nutrition, physical activity, and mental health support

Doctors emphasise that strength matters. A dietitian can help with weight loss and nausea. Gentle movement, as tolerated, helps with fatigue. Counselling and support groups reduce anxiety and depression for both the patient and the family.

Ogogo’s daughters specifically said they are not asking for money but for help.

5. Explore evidence-based complementary options with medical guidance

Many families ask about herbs and alternative medicine, as Kira mentioned in her appeal. Oncologists advise against abandoning conventional care and stress telling your doctor about all herbs or supplements to avoid dangerous interactions. Some hospitals now have integrative oncology units that combine conventional treatment with approved supportive therapies.

Note that this is general information, not medical advice. Stage-four cancer treatment depends on the cancer type, overall health, and available resources. Patients and families should speak directly with an oncologist before making any decisions.

As of press time, the Hassan family had not released details of the specific type of cancer. (The Nation)

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