Nigerian Researcher Odii Chisom Earns PhD in Cancer Nursing at 29, Sets African Record

A Nigerian-born researcher, Odii Chisom, has earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Nursing with specialisation in Symptom Science (Gynecologic Oncology) from University of Alabama at Birmingham, becoming the youngest scholar in Africa to achieve the feat at the age of 29.

Dr. Odii completed the prestigious doctoral programme at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), an institution globally recognised for its contributions to cancer research and healthcare innovation.

His research focused on improving the understanding of cancer-related symptoms, particularly chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) among gynecologic cancer patients, while also examining how social determinants of health affect symptom severity and healthcare equity.

The study is expected to contribute significantly to precision symptom science aimed at improving the quality of life of patients undergoing treatment for gynecologic cancers.

Speaking on the achievement, Dr. Odii described the accomplishment as more than a personal academic milestone, stressing the importance of research-driven healthcare solutions.

“This PhD represents not just an academic milestone but a commitment to bridging gaps in cancer care, especially for underserved populations,” he said.

“By focusing on symptom science and health equity, we can develop interventions that truly transform patient outcomes in gynecologic oncology.”

The researcher also called for increased investment in data-driven policymaking and improved research infrastructure in Nigeria.

According to him, the country still faces major challenges with reliable health data and record keeping, which affects effective healthcare planning and governance.

“It is unfortunate that data-driven policy making has yet to become the norm in our society. We still lack reliable figures on deaths, births, and key health indices for large segments of the population,” he stated.

Dr. Odii further advocated the establishment of robust database systems and modern digital record-keeping structures powered by Nigeria’s National Identification Number framework to strengthen evidence-based governance and healthcare delivery.

He also urged the government to embrace data science and artificial intelligence while increasing funding for impactful research capable of improving citizens’ lives.