KENYA: Government Steps Up Cervical, Prostate Cancer Screening Nationwide

By Moses Punyuah, Nairobi 

The government has intensified nationwide cervical and prostate cancer screening, with a week-long medical camp in Ngiriambu, Kirinyaga County, recording a high turnout, particularly among men seeking prostate cancer screening.

The exercise, held at Ngiriambu Primary School, is being implemented by the Ministry of Health in partnership with the National Cancer Institute as part of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, focusing on early detection, prevention and access to care.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the strong male participation marks a shift in attitudes towards men’s health.

“For many years, men avoided prostate cancer screening due to stigma and fear, but what we are seeing here shows awareness is taking root,” Muthoni said.

She emphasized that early detection remains key, noting that more than 6,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, with about 3,500 deaths largely linked to late diagnosis.

“When cancer is detected early, it is treatable and manageable. We must stop losing lives to late diagnosis,” she added.

The PS urged parents to ensure girls below 14 years receive the HPV vaccine, describing it as a proven prevention tool, and said the government is working with counties to equip public hospitals for cancer care. She revealed that the Social Health Authority has set aside Sh800,000 for cancer treatment to ease patients’ financial burden.

Muthoni also warned against misuse of over-the-counter drugs without prescriptions, saying offenders will face action, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding cancer screening and treatment services acr

oss the country.