About 44,000 new cancer cases are confirmed in Kenya every year with the figure likely to more than double to 95,000 cases by the year 2040, which is a worrying trend that should be urgently addressed.
This is according to the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, Chief Executive Officer, Dr Elias Melly who says about two-thirds of cancer patients in Kenya lose their lives every year, a situation that calls for a multi-sectoral intervention.
Speaking during the official opening of the 8th edition of the Kenya International Cancer Conference at a hotel in Kisumu, Dr. Melly said cancer is the third cause of death in Kenya after infectious and cardiovascular diseases.
“The way the cancer fatalities have been increasing, cancer is likely to soon be second killer disease in Kenya,” he said.
Delegates at the conference under the theme: “Advancing Cancer Care in Africa in a Rapidly Changing World” highlighted the need to urgently employ the use of cutting-edge technology, increase funding for the fight against cancer, regular screening and stepping up sensitization of the public about cancer as among effective ways of tackling cancer in Kenya.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o underscored the need for regular screening. “Cancer screening is a vital initiative in promoting health and awareness in our community. Early detection saves lives,” he said.
He noted that cervical and breast cancer are the leading causes of deaths in Kisumu County.
However, Prof. Nyong’o added: “More than 50% of cancer patients are diagnosed when the disease is advanced.”
Kenya Society of Haematology and Oncology (KESHO), Interim President, Helena Musau, said the conference in Kisumu has attracted over 400 delegates drawn from 50 countries.
