Leveraging technology to improve healthcare in Nigeria and globally

The Co-Founders of War on Cancer, Sebastian Hermelin and Fabian Bolin, recently shared insights on how technology can be leveraged to improve healthcare globally and specifically in Nigeria. In a conversation with CNBC Africa's Christy Cole at the Nigeria Digital Economy Summit, the duo shed light on the critical role of digital platforms in enhancing the healthcare sector. War on Cancer is a health tech company focused on eradicating the depression associated with cancer by enhancing mental health for patients, survivors, and their loved ones through their innovative app. The platform allows users to share stories, connect with others in similar situations, and find a sense of community and support. With members from over 20 countries already using the app, the founders are keen to understand the specific needs of the Nigerian cancer population. The summit highlighted the importance of uniting government efforts with entrepreneurial innovation to build infrastructure that facilitates digital solutions. While there is a willingness to engage with health apps in Nigeria, access to data remains a challenge that needs to be addressed at the government level. War on Cancer is working towards fine-tuning their app to ensure access for all, especially those with limited data access. By encouraging people to download the app and provide feedback, the company aims to tailor their product to meet the needs of the Nigerian population. The founders emphasized the universal nature of mental health challenges faced by cancer patients globally, underlining the importance of building a supportive community. The summit underscored the significance of affordable access to internet and Wi-Fi as a foundational requirement for the success of digital solutions in healthcare. The commitment of the Nigerian government to embrace the fourth industrial revolution was a key takeaway, signaling a crucial step towards leveraging technology for societal benefit. The summit emphasized the need for inclusive and accessible digital solutions to drive positive change in the healthcare sector and beyond.