Kenya urged to prioritize cancer prevention as cases and deaths rise

KENYA – The Ministry of Health has reported alarming cancer statistics, revealing that Kenya records approximately 45,000 new cancer cases each year, resulting in 29,000 deaths.

These figures highlight the urgent need to shift from a predominantly curative healthcare model to one that prioritizes prevention.

Speaking at a cervical cancer awareness media briefing, Health Cabinet Secretary Debora Barasa emphasized that cervical cancer alone accounts for 5,845 new cases and 3,591 deaths annually.

She stressed the importance of strengthening preventive measures to curb the growing burden of the disease.

“We must act swiftly and decisively to address the increasing threat of cervical cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Kenya,” Barasa stated.

To tackle this challenge, the government is integrating cervical cancer prevention into primary healthcare services nationwide.

A key focus is expanding access to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations, routine screenings, and early treatment.

According to Barasa, HPV vaccination is a proven strategy in reducing future cervical cancer cases, particularly among girls aged 10 to 14.

Since the introduction of the HPV vaccine in Kenya in 2019, over 3.3 million girls have received their first dose, while 2.3 million have completed the recommended two-dose regimen.

This progress marks a significant step toward eliminating cervical cancer in the country.

“HPV vaccines are safe, effective, and available free of charge in all hospitals across the country. Protect our girls, protect the future,” Barasa urged.

HPV is a group of more than 200 viruses, most of which are harmless. However, certain high-risk types can cause genital warts and several types of cancer.

While 90% of infections clear on their own, persistent infections with high-risk HPV strains are the primary cause of cervical cancer.

Additionally, HPV is linked to cancers of the vulva, vagina, mouth, throat, penis, and anus.

Globally, HPV was responsible for approximately 620,000 cancer cases in women and 70,000 in men in 2019.

Experts emphasize that HPV vaccination can prevent these cancers.

Alongside vaccination, regular screening and early treatment of pre-cancerous lesions remain effective strategies in reducing cervical cancer cases.

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