Health
October being a Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Thika level 5 hospital’s management has urged Kenyans to prioritize regular cancer screening for easy management of the disease if one is diagnosed to be suffering from it.
The month is dedicated to emphasizing the critical role of early detection and screening in the fight against the killer disease. The health facility has also organized a free three-day clinic for breast and cervical cancer testing to promote awareness about the importance of early detection as it saves lives.
Breast cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast tissue, which includes three primary components: lobules, ducts, and connective tissue. A majority of breast cancers start in the ducts or lobules and have the potential to spread to other areas of the body, a process known as metastasis. Although breast cancer can occur in both men and women, it is significantly more prevalent in women.
A study released by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that the rate of invasive breast cancer among women aged 20 to 49 has risen significantly over the past twenty years, especially in early Stage 1 and late Stage 4 cases. In Kenya, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed form of cancer, with approximately 6,000 new cases reported each year, as stated by the National Cancer Institute of Kenya. This disease accounts for about 2,500 cancer-related fatalities annually, ranking as the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the nation.
In an interview with KNA, an oncology nurse Esther Weru expressed concern over the alarming increase in breast cancer rates among women under 40. “We recommend that women begin annual breast cancer screenings at age 30, a shift from the previous recommendation of 50. However, the starting age may vary depending on individual risk factors,” she stated.
Weru also highlighted the significance of women undergoing a baseline exam with their primary care provider during their 20s. “During that consultation, they can talk about the appropriate time to begin regular screenings. Women with a family history of breast cancer may need to start screening before the age of 30, as they are at a higher risk.
If a woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer surpasses 20%, a more intensive screening protocol is advised, including imaging every six months. For most women, annual mammograms are usually adequate,” she explained. She emphasized the importance of women engaging in open conversations about screenings with their healthcare providers, including their primary care physicians and OB-GYNs. This aligns with this year’s breast cancer awareness month theme: “No one should face cancer alone.”
“In sub-Saharan Africa, a significant number of women are diagnosed at advanced stages of disease due to delayed detection and restricted access to quality healthcare. This results in elevated mortality rates, as advanced treatment options tend to be expensive and are often less effective in terms of cure,” the medic said.
In response to these challenges, local health facilities are making efforts to enhance the affordability of breast cancer screening and treatments. For example, throughout October, they offer free screenings for breast and cervical cancer. Additionally, they provide discounted CT scans and MRI services to facilitate early detection, thereby raising awareness and improving access to breast cancer care.
“Breast cancer awareness and early screening are vital steps in saving lives. It’s essential for women, particularly those at increased risk, to talk to their healthcare providers about when to begin screening. By emphasizing early detection, we can enhance health outcomes and lessen the impact of breast cancer within our communities,” elaborated Weru.