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In a powerful address at the recent National Cancer Summit, Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale EGH, highlighted that cancer is a national emergency, not just a health crisis. He shared statistics, noting that every day, over 120 Kenyans are diagnosed, and close to 29,000 lives are lost each year. These aren’t just numbers; they represent people, families, and shattered dreams.

Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale’s speech focused on the collective efforts being made to combat this crisis, stating that regional cancer centers are now operational across various counties, a significant step toward improving access and equity, The National Equipment Service Project has equipped hospitals with essential tools. For example, mammograms have been installed in Kisumu and Kerugoya, and CT scans are now operational in 15 county referral hospitals.

He further added that The Ministry of Health is expanding screening for various cancers, including breast, cervical, and prostate cancer, through community health promoters and mobile outreach teams. Through the Taifa Care initiative, the Ministry of Health is building a more responsive health system under CS Duale leadership. He celebrated a new partnership with Roche, which has drastically reduced the cost of certain cancer treatments for eligible beneficiaries.

Hon. Aden Duale urged all stakeholders to join the fight. He called on county governments to prioritize cancer in their budgets, healthcare professionals to lead with compassion, and the private sector to invest in localized, affordable solutions. He also encouraged the media, civil society, survivors, and citizens to raise awareness and unite their voices.

We were honored to have H.E Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o join us for the 2nd National Cancer Summit ,a gathering that reflected a collective concern and a shared commitment to transforming the course of cancer care in Kenya.

In his address, Prof. Nyong’o highlighted that cancer remains the third leading cause of death in Kenya, following cardiovascular diseases. He emphasized that “the time for dialogue is now, but more crucially, the time for action is now.” His speech focused on moving from policy to practice and from intent to impact.

Prof. Nyong’o commended the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) for supporting the establishment of cancer centers beyond Kenyatta National Hospital and acknowledged KNH’s significant contributions to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and training. He also applauded the National Cancer Control Strategy (2023–2027) launched by the Ministry of Health but urged all stakeholders to ensure its effective implementation.

As the Governor of Kisumu County, Prof. Nyong’o shared how his administration has contextualized the national strategy to address local realities. He stressed that cervical and breast cancers pose urgent public health threats in the region, prompting the First Ladies of the ELRA region to take an active role in promoting early detection and screening.

Through strategic partnerships with organizations such as Sketa, the Africa Cancer Foundation, PEFA, the American Cancer Society, UNICEF, and other stakeholders, Kisumu County has rolled out a community-based cancer screening program aiming to reach every eligible woman within three years. These efforts have led to a significant increase in HPV vaccination coverage among girls aged 10–14, rising from 12% in 2022 to 38% in 2024. This success has been driven by community health workers, schools, nurses, and grassroots advocacy.

With the constitutional mandate for counties to deliver healthcare services, Kisumu County has digitized community health systems, recruited gynecologists and oncologists, and is progressing toward the completion of comprehensive cancer care centres.

However, Prof. Nyong’o acknowledged the persistent challenges facing Kenya’s cancer response, including:

.Limited diagnostic infrastructure in counties

.A shortage of oncology specialists

.Gaps in financial protection for patients

.Social and cultural barriers affecting care

He urged for greater public education, stressing the need to normalize conversations around cancer and treat it like any other disease. He called on stakeholders to remain committed to funding, staffing, equipping, and tracking the impact of strategies put in place.

Prof. Nyong’o concluded by encouraging the summit to serve as a catalyst for renewed commitment – not only to talk about cancer but also to treat it, prevent it, fund it, and, where possible, eradicate it.

Most Kenyans have heard of cervical, prostate, and breast cancers. But mention Appendix Cancer and you might be met with surprise- and rightfully so. Awareness is low, yet this rare condition accounts for 1% of gastrointestinal cancers and is often discovered accidentally during other surgeries. Though it usually hides in plain sight, Appendix Cancer can have life-changing consequences. This August at NCI-Kenya, we are putting it in the spotlight and raising awareness to change that.

In Kenya, Appendix Cancer often goes unnoticed until it is advanced, partly because its symptoms mimic more common abdominal problems. This similarity can delay diagnosis, making awareness the key to early action. By recognizing the signs and seeking medical evaluation promptly, Kenyans can improve their chances of early detection and better treatment outcomes. For a detailed overview of the signs and symptoms to watch out for, read our earlier blog post link

While Appendix Cancer can occur at any age, it is mostly diagnosed in people aged 40 and above. However, younger Kenyans should not ignore ongoing or unexplained abdominal pain. Throughout this month, we will be sharing information about this condition on all our social media platforms and expanding the cancer conversation to include Appendix cancer, because rare does not mean irrelevant. Raising awareness ensures more people recognize it, ask the right questions, and get the help they need.

This August, we invite all Kenyans to join our awareness drive by sharing credible information on our platforms, encouraging family and friends to pay attention to abdominal symptoms, and supporting everyone undergoing treatment. Together, we can ensure that Appendix Cancer is no longer in the shadows but identified, understood, and tackled head-on. Awareness saves lives, and in this fight, every voice counts.

“I was only six when I was diagnosed with cancer,” Remembered Robert, a childhood cancer survivor. “Back in the day, there were no pediatric wards and no one to explain what was going on. The pain wasn’t just physical; it was also emotional. An invisible scar I still carried for so long.” Robert’s story was one among many that were shared during the recently concluded National Cancer Summit that brought together faith leaders, health workers, and community advocates to discuss the stigma and imbalance surrounding cancer in Kenya.

In a panel discussion chaired by Phoebe Ongadi (Executive Director, Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations), faith leaders emphasized the role churches and mosques play. They reiterated that they can be powerful places for education, mobilization, and compassion. Communities can learn to embrace and support patients rather than isolate them because cancer is neither a curse nor a punishment.

For survivors like Eunice, stigma was made worse by the financial burden that comes with treating cancer. “I had to choose between paying for school and raising funds for treatment. Support for young people battling cancer was almost non-existent.” Youth voices added urgency to the call for prevention and policy action. Elvina, a cancer advocate, contributed to the discussion, adding that cancer awareness should be integrated into the school curriculum just like religion is. “We must reject the influence of industries that fuel the disease burden like tobacco, she stressed.

Policy advocates highlighted the inequalities faced by cancer patients, especially in rural areas where they have to travel long distances for services that sometimes may not be available when they get there. Religious leaders and community advocates alike underscored the need for health systems that are inclusive, equitable, and respond to patient needs. The discussion highlighted an agreed-upon fact: cancer is not only a medical issue but a societal one. Addressing it will require everyone pulling their weight in their respective areas, cultural understanding, and policy reforms.

As the session came to an end, all voices across generations and sectors blended into one call- end stigma, increase support, and ensure no Kenyan fights cancer alone.

In a powerful display of community engagement and public health commitment, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) recently participated in a highly successful outreach program in Muhoroni, Kisumu County. The initiative, which was a part of a broader empowerment effort, focused on providing crucial cancer prevention and control services to local residents.

The well-attended event provided free screening for cervical, breast, and prostate cancer, where residents turned up for the activity hence supporting this, with the NCI-K team working tirelessly to educate community members on early detection and prevention. The program drew a distinguished list of leaders, underscoring the collaborative and high-level support for the fight against cancer.

The event was officially hosted by the Attorney General, Hon. Dorcas Odour. The NCI-K team also took the opportunity to engage directly with key government figures to highlight the institute’s mandate and the importance of continued public education. These included the Solicitor General, Hon. Shadrack J. Mose, and the area Member of Parliament for Muhoroni, Hon. James Onyango Oyoo. The presence of other influential leaders such as the former Prime Minister Hon. Raila Odinga, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, Deputy Governor Kisumu County, Hon. Beatrice Elachi, and Senator Catherine Mumo further amplified the event’s significance.

This collaborative effort served as a powerful platform for leaders to unite in demonstrating a shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of Kenyans. The initiative at Muhoroni is a clear example of how strategic partnerships between government institutions and community leaders can translate into tangible, life-saving action on the ground.

A successful free medical camp at Kibigori Senior Secondary School concluded today, leaving a positive impact on the community. The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including Hon Raila Odinga, the Attorney General of Kenya, Dorcas Oduor, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, Solicitor General of Kenya, Shadrack J. Mose, and the Member of Parliament for Muhoroni Constituency, Hon. Oyoo James Onyango.

During the closing ceremony, Dr. Ouma Oluga extended his gratitude to all the organizations that participated, emphasizing their role in bringing essential health services to the community. He gave a special mention to the National Cancer Institute of Kenya for their significant contribution in providing comprehensive screening services and raising cancer awareness among the residents.

In a move to ensure the camp’s benefits have a lasting effect, Dr. Oluga announced that all remaining medical supplies, including medicines, will be distributed to nearby hospitals. This initiative aims to provide continued access to healthcare for the local population.

The free medical camp at Kibigori Senior Secondary School served as a practical example of how the NCI-K’s strategic objectives are being translated into tangible action on the ground, making a real difference in the lives of ordinary Kenyans. The event underscored the government’s commitment to tackling non-communicable diseases and strengthening community-level healthcare services.

The medical camp was more than just a health initiative; it was a community-building event that brought together leaders, healthcare professionals, and residents to promote well-being and legal awareness.

The just concluded National Cancer Summit marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s cancer care landscape with the official launch of the National Radiotherapy Treatment Protocol. This new protocol is a significant step towards standardizing and improving the quality of radiotherapy services across the country.

The new protocol provides a unified framework for healthcare professionals, ensuring that all patients, regardless of their location, receive consistent and evidence-based radiotherapy treatment. This is a critical move to address the disparities in care and to ensure that cancer patients are treated according to the latest national and international guidelines.

The protocol is expected to enhance treatment outcomes and minimize side effects. The launch of this document at the National Cancer Summit shows the government’s commitment to tackling the growing burden of cancer by investing in comprehensive and high-quality care. It represents a collaborative effort by oncologists, physicists, and other cancer experts to elevate the standard of radiotherapy and provide the best possible care for cancer patients in Kenya.

Appendix cancer is a very rare type of cancer that begins in the cells of the appendix, a small, finger-like pouch attached to the large intestine. Because it is so uncommon, it can be difficult to diagnose and is often discovered accidentally during surgery for another condition, such as appendicitis.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Because appendix cancer is so rare and often has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, a diagnosis can be challenging. Symptoms, when they do appear, are often vague and can be mistaken for other conditions.

Common symptoms may include:

• Appendicitis-like pain in the lower right abdomen
• A gradual increase in waist size or abdominal bloating
• A feeling of fullness or a mass in the abdomen
• Changes in bowel habits
• Hernias-In men, a hernia in the groin is sometimes the first sign
• Ovarian masses-In women, a mass in the pelvis may be the initial indication, and it can sometimes be mistaken for ovarian cancer.
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bowel obstruction

Diagnosis is often made after a person undergoes a physical exam and imaging tests like a CT or MRI scan. In many cases, the cancer is only discovered during an appendectomy (appendix removal) for suspected appendicitis. A definitive diagnosis is made through a biopsy, where a pathologist examines a tissue sample.

Treatment Options

The primary treatment for appendix cancer is surgery. The specific surgical approach depends on the type, size, and stage of the cancer.

July is Sarcoma Awareness Month, a time to shed light on one of the lesser-known forms of cancer that affects both children and adults. Despite its rarity, sarcoma poses significant challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and awareness. In this blog post, we’ll explore what sarcoma is, how it impacts lives, and why raising awareness is so important.

🧬 What is Sarcoma?

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that originates in the body’s connective tissues—the structures that support and hold the body together. This includes:

Muscle

Fat

Bloodvessels

Nerves

Tendons

BoneCartilage

Sarcomas can occur almost anywhere in the body. Because of this diversity, they are often referred to as “the forgotten cancer”—rare, complex, and frequently misdiagnosed

📊 Types of Sarcoma.

Sarcomas are broadly categorized into two main types:

1. Soft Tissue Sarcoma. Affects soft tissues like muscle, fat, and blood vessels. There are over 50 subtypes, including:Liposarcoma (fat tissue)Leiomyosarcoma (smooth muscle)Synovial Sarcoma (around joints)Angiosarcoma (blood vessels)

2. Bone Sarcoma. More common in children and young adults. Major types include:Osteosarcoma (usually in the long bones)Ewing Sarcoma, Chondrosarcoma (cartilage)

🚩 Signs and Symptoms

Early signs can be vague or easily overlooked, making early detection difficult. Some common symptoms include:

A lump or mass that grows over time.

Persistent pain, especially in bones or joints

Swelling or tenderness

Fatigue or unexplained weight loss

Limited movement if the tumor is near a joint

🧪 Diagnosis and Treatment

If sarcoma is suspected, a series of tests may be used:

MRI, CT scans, or X-rays

Biopsy to examine the tissue

PET scans to check for spread

Treatment typically includes:Surgery to remove the tumor

Radiation therapy

Chemotherapy

Targeted therapies (depending on the sarcoma subtype)

Because of the complexity and rarity of sarcomas, patients are often referred to specialized sarcoma centers for treatment

🎗️ Why Awareness Matters

Sarcoma accounts for about 1% of adult cancers and 15% of childhood cancers.It often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, delaying treatment. Research funding for sarcoma is significantly lower than for more common cancers. Early detection can significantly improve outcomes.

It’s empowering to know that many cases of cancer are preventable through conscious lifestyle choices. While no single habit guarantees you’ll never get cancer, adopting a combination of healthy practices significantly lowers your risk.

Here are key lifestyle habits that can lower your cancer risk:

1. Don’t Use Tobacco in Any Form:
   • Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of cancer. It’s linked to cancers of the lung, mouth, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidney, pancreas, cervix, and more. Even secondhand smoke increases risk. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, quitting is the most impactful step you can take for your cancer prevention. Seek support and resources to help you quit. Avoid cigarettes and vaping as well.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight:
   • Obesity is a significant risk factor for at least 13 different types of cancer, including breast (post-menopause), colorectal, endometrial, kidney, and pancreatic. Excess body fat leads to chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalances that can promote cancer growth. Aim for a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference. Focus on gradual, sustainable weight management through diet and exercise rather than drastic measures.
3. Eat a Healthy, Plant-Focused Diet:
   • A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes provides essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, which protect cells from damage and support a healthy immune system. Limiting certain foods can also reduce risk.
   • Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables: Aim for a variety of colors to get a broad range of nutrients.
   • Choose whole grains over refined grains: Opt for whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oats, and quinoa.
   • Limit red and processed meats: Reduce consumption of beef, pork, lamb, and avoid processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats, which are classified as carcinogens.
   • Limit sugary drinks and highly processed foods: These often contribute to weight gain and inflammation.
   • Incorporate healthy fats: Choose olive oil, avocados, and nuts in moderation.

1. Be Physically Active:
   • Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, improves immune function, reduces inflammation, and positively influences hormone levels, all of which can lower cancer risk. It’s particularly effective in reducing the risk of colorectal and breast cancers.
   • Include strength training at least two days a week.
   • Reduce sedentary time by taking breaks to move throughout the day. Even short walks add up!
2. Limit Alcohol Consumption (or Avoid It Entirely):
   • Alcohol is a known carcinogen linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, and colon. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. For cancer prevention, less is generally better, and avoiding alcohol altogether is the safest choice.
3. Protect Your Skin from the Sun:
   • Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the primary cause of skin cancers, including melanoma. Tanning beds and sunlamps are also harmful.
   • Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest.
   • Wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
   • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, and reapply every two hours (or more often if swimming or sweating).
   • Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
4. Get Vaccinated:
   • Certain viruses can cause cancer. Vaccines can protect against these infections.
   • HPV Vaccine: Protects against Human Papillomavirus, which causes most cervical cancers, as well as some anal, throat, and other genital cancers. Recommended for adolescents, but can be given up to age 45.
   • Hepatitis B Vaccine: Protects against Hepatitis B virus, which can lead to liver cancer.
5. Know Your Family History and Get Recommended Screenings:
   • While not a “lifestyle habit” in the same vein as diet or exercise, being proactive about screening is crucial for early detection, which dramatically improves treatment outcomes. Understanding your family history can inform personalized screening recommendations.
   • Talk to your doctor about your family history of cancer.
   • Follow recommended screening guidelines for your age and risk factors (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap tests, lung cancer screenings if you have a history of heavy smoking).
6. Limit Exposure to Environmental Toxins:
   • Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants in the environment or workplace can increase cancer risk.
   • Be aware of potential carcinogens in your home and work environment (e.g., radon, asbestos, certain industrial chemicals) and take steps to minimize exposure.

By incorporating these habits into your daily life, you significantly stack the odds in your favor for reducing your cancer risk and promoting overall health and well-being. Remember to discuss any health concerns or major lifestyle changes with your healthcare provider.