A doctor, Olusina Ajidahun, has explained the concept of palliative care following claims by the daughters of veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, that hospitals had refused to continue treating their father, who is battling stage-four cancer.
Ajidahun, known on X as The Bearded Dr Sina, said the daughters’ description of their father’s situation could be misunderstood, particularly the statement that hospitals had “refused to treat” him.
He explained that when a patient has stage-four cancer and chemotherapy or other available treatments have been explored, doctors may recommend palliative care to manage symptoms, improve comfort and maintain quality of life.
The doctor warned that describing such a situation as hospitals deliberately refusing treatment could create a negative perception of medical professionals.
He also urged the public not to rely on unverified herbal remedies as a treatment for advanced cancer, warning that some concoctions could cause additional health complications.
Ajidahun explained that stage-four cancer generally means the cancer has spread from its original site to other parts of the body, although treatment options vary depending on the type of cancer, its spread and the patient’s individual circumstances.
He expressed sympathy for Ogogo’s family and encouraged them to work closely with the medical team managing the actor’s condition.
The doctor clarified that he is not involved in Ogogo’s medical care and was commenting independently on the videos posted by the actor’s daughters.
