Early cancer screening is Kenya’s most powerful tool against the ripping effect of the disease, Kenya Society for Hematologists and Oncologists (KESHO) President Dr. Gladwell Kiarie has declared.
Dr Kiarie further added that timely screening has prevented at least five deaths for every 100 potential fatalities.
Addressing a high-level partner’s breakfast meeting ahead of the 9th Kenya International Cancer Conference to be held in Mombasa from 19th to 21st November 2026, Dr. Kiarie noted that Kenya records around 47,000 new cancer cases and more than 32,000 deaths each year.
“There is pressing need for a comprehensive cancer mapping to inform policies that promote early diagnosis and treatment, considering that accurate data is critical to target interventions effectively and save lives,” said the KESHO President.
Dr. Kiarie said with early detection and technology-driven interventions, Kenya can significantly reduce preventable cancer deaths and move toward more equitable and effective care.
The meeting, which brought together oncologists, hematologists, and other health professionals to mobilize action and investment in tackling Kenya’s growing cancer burden, explored the role of technology in cancer care, with experts citing digital pathology as a potential game changer in diagnostics.
Delegates emphasized that, while treatment costs remain prohibitive for many Kenyans, scaling up screening and awareness at the grassroots level can help identify cases early and improve access to affordable care.
Prof. Chite Asirwa, the Chairperson of the 2026 Kenya International Cancer Conference and Executive Director at the International Cancer Institute, confirmed that over 600 delegates from Kenya and abroad are expected at the upcoming conference, whose theme will run under “Equity, Excellence, and Sustainable Impact in Cancer Care.”
The bi-annual forum will provide a platform for knowledge exchange, showcase innovative solutions, and foster partnerships aimed at reducing the impact of cancer nationwide.
As of early 2026, Kenya faces a rising cancer burden with approximately 44,000 to 48,000 new cases and over 29,000 to 32,000 annual deaths.
Cancer is the third leading cause of death nationally, with cervical, breast, prostate, esophageal, and colorectal cancers being the most common. Key drivers include late-stage diagnosis, smoking, alcohol use, and infections.
By Wangari Ndirangu
