Kenyans have been urged to take up regular breast cancer screening as cases of the disease continue to rise across the country.
According to Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu’s resident oncologist, Dr. Alfred Mayani, early screening and timely diagnosis are critical in saving lives, as many patients still report to hospitals at advanced stages when treatment is complicated and costly.
“Screening is integral in the fight against breast cancer, which remains the most common cancer in Kenya,” said Dr. Mayani.
He noted that Kenya records about 7,000 new breast cancer cases annually, with nearly half of the patients succumbing due to late diagnosis.
Dr. Mayani made the remarks during a breast cancer awareness walk organized by Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The procession moved through Mamba, Patel, and Kondele areas before returning to the hospital, where participants engaged locals on the importance of regular check-ups and healthy living.
The hospital is offering free breast and cervical cancer screening throughout the awareness month as part of its community health outreach initiative.
Dr. Mayani advised women to begin with self-breast examinations at home and to seek medical attention if they notice any unusual changes such as lumps or nipple discharge.
He emphasized that mammograms remain the most effective tool for early detection, though they are recommended for women aged 40 years and above, as younger women often have denser breast tissue that may affect accuracy.
He added that other clinical and imaging methods are available for younger women, ensuring early detection across all age groups.
While some risk factors like age, gender, and family history cannot be controlled, Dr. Mayani urged Kenyans to reduce their risk through lifestyle changes.
“Excessive alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, poor diet, and physical inactivity all increase cancer risk,” he said. “Healthy eating, regular exercise, and responsible living are essential in prevention.”
He noted that Kenya has made significant progress in cancer management, with major hospitals now offering chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, and surgery.
“Breast cancer is curable when detected early,” Dr. Mayani stressed, adding that late presentation remains the biggest challenge facing patients and the healthcare system.
He said Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu will continue conducting mobile screening clinics and community outreach programmes across the county to promote early diagnosis and prevention.
“Cancer awareness should not end with this walk,” he said. “We must continue spreading the message that early detection saves lives.”
