Kenyans have been urged to embrace regular breast cancer screening to curb the rising cases of the disease, which remains among the leading causes of death in the country.
According to Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu resident oncologist Dr. Alfred Mayani, screening and early diagnosis are critical in reducing breast cancer-related fatalities, as most patients are still presenting the disease at advanced stages when treatment becomes more complicated and expensive.
“Screening is integral in the fight against breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in the country,” Dr. Mayani said.
Kenya, he said, records about 7,000 new cases of breast cancer every year, and nearly half of those affected die due to late diagnosis.
Dr. Mayani spoke today during a cancer awareness walk organized by Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The procession moved from the hospital through Mamba, Patel, Kondele, back through Patel, and returned to the facility, where organizers sensitized locals on the need for regular check-ups and healthy lifestyles.
He said the hospital was offering free breast and cervical cancer screening services throughout the awareness period as part of efforts to combat the disease.
Dr. Mayani urged women to begin with self-breast examinations at home and seek medical attention if they notice lumps or other unusual changes.
“A mammogram remains the most effective method of early detection, and most facilities in the country are now equipped to provide the service. However, we do not recommend mammograms for women below 40 years because their breast tissue is still dense and may give inaccurate results,” he said.
He added that other clinical and imaging examinations are available to detect the disease among younger women.
The oncologist noted that while some risk factors such as age, gender, and family history cannot be controlled, individuals can reduce their risk through lifestyle adjustments.
“Habits such as excessive alcohol intake and cigarette smoking contribute to cancer development,” he said. “We must watch our eating habits, stay physically active, and maintain healthy behaviour to keep the disease at bay,” he advised.
Dr. Mayani said Kenya has made significant strides in cancer care, with major facilities now offering chemotherapy, surgery, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and radiotherapy.
“Breast cancer is curable when detected early,” he said adding: “Our biggest challenge remains late presentation, which complicates treatment and increases the cost of care.
Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu, he said, will continue to conduct mobile screening clinics and community outreach programmes across the county to enhance early detection and prevention.
“Cancer awareness should not end with this walk, we must continue spreading the message that early detection saves lives,” Dr Mayani challenged.
By Chris Mahandara
