National Cancer Institute Kenya

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  • UTERINE CANCER CARE AND CHALLENGES DURING THE TREATMENT PHASE

    UTERINE CANCER CARE AND CHALLENGES DURING THE TREATMENT PHASE

    Uterine cancer is one of the most common gynecologic cancers among women. Early detection plays a significant role in successful treatment outcomes, but once diagnosed, patients often embark on a physically and emotionally challenging journey. Understanding the care and treatment process, as well as the hurdles patients face during this phase, is essential to supporting those affected.

    Care and Treatment Process

    The care and treatment of uterine cancer often begins with a multidisciplinary approach involving gynecologic oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and support teams. The most common treatment option is surgery, commonly a hysterectomy, which may include removal of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and sometimes surrounding lymph nodes. This mainly depends on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer.

    Post-surgery, adjuvant therapies may be required:

    • Radiation Therapy: Helps eliminate remaining cancer cells and reduces the risk of recurrence.
    • Chemotherapy: Used in more advanced or aggressive cases to target cancer cells throughout the body.
    • Hormone Therapy: Applied for hormone-sensitive cancers to block hormones that fuel cancer growth.

    Regular monitoring, including blood tests, scans, and pelvic exams, is essential throughout the treatment process to track progress and adjust the care plan as needed.

    Challenges Faced During Treatment

    While effective treatment options exist, patients often face a range of physical, emotional, and financial challenges during the treatment phase:

    • Physical Side Effects: These may include fatigue, nausea, pain, surgical complications, hormonal imbalances, and early menopause.
    • Emotional Strain: Many women experience anxiety, fear of recurrence, depression, and body image issues. For younger patients, infertility can be especially distressing.
    • Financial Barriers: In many regions, treatment costs, travel expenses, and time away from work or family can create overwhelming financial stress.
    • Limited Access in Low-Resource Settings: late diagnosis due to lack of screening, inadequate health infrastructure, and scarcity of specialists pose serious barriers to timely and quality care.

    Beyond medical treatment, uterine cancer care must include psychosocial support, patient education, and community outreach. Support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs can significantly improve a patient’s ability to cope. Additionally, strengthening health systems to ensure earlier diagnosis, equitable access to care, and ongoing survivorship support is critical.

    Uterine cancer treatment involves more than just managing the disease. It is about supporting the whole patient. Addressing the physical, emotional, and social challenges faced during treatment can lead to better outcomes and a higher quality of life for women living with this disease.

  • NCI-K Assesses Cancer Control Implementation in Murang’a County

    NCI-K Assesses Cancer Control Implementation in Murang’a County

    11th June 2025 – Muranga County – NCI-K continues its county-wide assessment of the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023-2027. Today, NCI-K met with the Murang’a County Health Management Team (CHMT), led by Dr. James Mbugua, Director of County Health Medical and Public Health Services.

    The assessment identified significant gaps in Murang’a County’s cancer control efforts, specifically in prevention and early detection, imaging, pathology and laboratory medicine, treatment, and palliative care. Furthermore, major deficiencies were noted in cancer advocacy and financing, with no dedicated budget for cancer activities despite their inclusion in the County’s Annual Work Plan (AWP). The county also lacks an operational oncology center or unit. Despite these challenges, Murang’a County does have a sufficiently trained healthcare workforce for oncology services.

    Discussions also focused on potential areas for partnership and collaboration to effectively implement the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023-2027 within Murang’a County. In addressing these identified gaps, NCI-K, as stipulated in the Cancer Prevention and Control Act 2012, is uniquely positioned to play a crucial role. Specifically, NCI-K can:

    • Encourage and Secure Establishment of Facilities: Work to encourage and secure the establishment of much-needed oncology centers, units, and other institutions for the welfare and treatment of persons with cancer in Murang’a. This includes supporting the provision of diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitative care.
    • Coordinate Services: Coordinate existing and future cancer services within Murang’a, ensuring a streamlined and efficient approach to patient care, from diagnosis to palliative care.
    • Collect, Analyze, and Disseminate Data: Leverage its mandate to collect, analyze, and disseminate data on cancer cases in Murang’a to inform planning and targeted interventions. This will ensure accurate figures for planning purposes.
    • Provide Technical Assistance and Training: Offer technical assistance and provide access to available information and training to the Murang’a CHMT and healthcare workers, enhancing their capacity in cancer prevention, early detection, and management across all areas identified as having gaps.

    Through these concerted efforts, NCI-K will be instrumental in transforming Murang’a County’s cancer control landscape, ensuring a more comprehensive and responsive approach to the cancer burden.

  • ADDRESSING UTERINE CANCER IN KENYA

    ADDRESSING UTERINE CANCER IN KENYA

                                                           

    Uterine cancer originates in the lining of the uterus.  In Kenya, the disease is increasingly becoming an emerging public health concern due to rising incidence rates and late-stage diagnoses. While traditionally less highlighted than cervical or breast cancer, uterine cancer is becoming more common, driven by rising life expectancy, changes in reproductive health trends, and shifting lifestyles.

    According to the National Cancer Registry data estimates, Kenya records approximately 829 new cases annually of uterine cancer and 257 deaths annually. These numbers place uterine cancer among the top twenty cancers affecting women in the country. Data from Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), supports these findings, showing a steady increase in gynecologic cancer referrals, with uterine cancer accounting for a growing share.

    Clinicians report that most uterine cancer patients are diagnosed between the ages of 50 and 65, often postmenopausal, and commonly present with abnormal uterine bleeding. A retrospective review of cases between 2015 and 2022 showed that more than 60% of patients presented with advanced-stage disease (Stage III or IV), reducing the effectiveness of treatment and worsening prognosis. Studies at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) and Aga Khan University Hospital echo findings at KNH, indicating a demographic shift toward younger women presenting with early symptoms.

    Risk Factors

    • Delayed childbearing and decreased fertility rates in women
    • Limited access to regular gynecological care and screening, especially in rural regions
    • Low public awareness about the symptoms of uterine cancer
    • A growing prevalence of obesity and metabolic disorders, even among younger women

    Diagnosis and Treatment Gaps

    Uterine cancer diagnosis in Kenya is hindered by limited diagnostic capacity, particularly outside major urban centers. Many public hospitals lack equipment for transvaginal ultrasound, histopathology, and advanced imaging. At KNH, diagnosis is often delayed due to long waiting times for biopsy results.

    Treatment typically involves total abdominal hysterectomy, sometimes followed by radiation or chemotherapy. However, there is a shortage of radiation therapy machines, with only a handful of public facilities offering radiotherapy. This shortage forces many patients to wait months or travel long distances for treatment, worsening their outcomes. With the operationalization of the Cancer Prevention and Control Act, 2012, by the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, these challenges are now being addressed through policy making, partnerships, and collaborations.

    The Way Forward

    Collaboration between the Kenyan government, academic institutions, and international health organizations can drive progress. Leveraging global insights while adapting strategies to Kenya’s health landscape is crucial to reducing uterine cancer mortality. This can be done through;

    • Increased public awareness campaigns tailored to Kenyan women.
    • Expand diagnostic infrastructure to counties and sub-counties.
    • Subsidize treatment through the Social Health Authority (SHA)
    • Train more gynecologic oncologists, nurses, and pathologists.
    • Integrate uterine cancer education into reproductive health services.

    Uterine cancer is a growing threat to women’s health in Kenya. With rising incidence and late diagnoses, the government of Kenya, through the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, is rolling out better screening programs, affordable treatment through the Social Health Authority (SHA), and public awareness.

    Addressing this issue requires more than medical treatment as it calls for a comprehensive, system-wide response that includes public education, investment in diagnostic capacity, equitable access to treatment, and health workforce training. With coordinated efforts from the government, healthcare institutions, and international partners, Kenya can shift the narrative from late-stage suffering to early detection and survival.

  • Decoding Uterine Cancer Symptoms: What Every Woman Should Know

    Decoding Uterine Cancer Symptoms: What Every Woman Should Know

    Uterine cancer, most commonly Endometrial cancer (which starts in the lining of the uterus), often presents with symptoms that are noticeable, allowing for earlier detection and better treatment outcomes. It’s crucial for every woman to be aware of these signs, even though they can also be caused by less serious conditions.

    Here’s what everyone should know about uterine cancer symptoms:

    The Most Important Symptom: Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

    This is by far the most common and often the earliest symptom of uterine cancer, occurring in about 90% of cases. “Abnormal” bleeding can look different depending on whether you’ve gone through menopause or not

    While abnormal bleeding is the primary symptom, other signs can occur as the cancer grows or if it’s a less common type of uterine cancer (like uterine sarcoma):

    • Unusual vaginal discharge: This can range from watery to thick, and may be clear, white, pink, or blood-tinged. It might also have an unpleasant odor.
    • Pelvic pain or pressure: This can be a persistent ache, cramping, or a feeling of fullness or discomfort in your lower abdomen or pelvis. It might also present as pain in your lower back or legs.
    • Pain during sex (dyspareunia): This can occur if the cancer has grown and is affecting the cervix or vagina.
    • Changes in urination or bowel movements: If the tumor grows large enough, it can press on the bladder or rectum, leading to:
      • Pain or difficulty when urinating.
      • More frequent urination.
      • Blood in the urine.
      • Pain or difficulty with bowel movements.
      • Blood in the stool.
    • Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying can be a symptom of many cancers, including uterine cancer, especially in later stages.
    • A lump or swelling in the tummy or pelvis.
    • Feeling of fullness or bloating.
    • Symptoms can be misleading: Many of these symptoms can be caused by benign conditions like fibroids, polyps, infections, or hormonal imbalances. However, only a doctor can determine the cause. Don’t assume it’s “just” menopause or a normal part of your cycle if you experience these changes.
    • Don’t wait: If you have any of these symptoms, especially abnormal bleeding, see your doctor right away. Don’t delay seeking medical advice.

    By being aware of these symptoms and acting quickly, women can significantly improve their chances of a positive outcome if diagnosed with uterine cancer.

  • NCI-K at ASCO: Bringing Global Cancer Advancements to Kenya

    NCI-K at ASCO: Bringing Global Cancer Advancements to Kenya

    The global stage for oncology is currently set in Chicago, where the prestigious American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting is underway. This highly anticipated conference brings together tens of thousands of oncology professionals from around the world to share groundbreaking research, innovative treatments, and the latest advancements in cancer care.

    We are proud to announce that the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) staff, led by our esteemed CEO, Dr. Elias Melly, is actively participating in this great event. NCI-K’s presence at ASCO demonstrates our unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of global cancer control efforts and ensuring that Kenya benefits from the latest in oncology.

    Attending ASCO provides an invaluable opportunity for the NCI-K team to:

    • Learn from the Best: Engage with leading experts, researchers, and clinicians presenting cutting-edge findings in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
    • Identify Innovations: Discover new technologies, therapies, and best practices that can be adapted and implemented to strengthen cancer care services across Kenya.
    • Foster Global Partnerships: Network with international organizations, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies to explore potential collaborations and resource mobilization opportunities.
    • Inform National Strategy: Gather critical insights that will further inform and refine Kenya’s National Cancer Control Strategy, ensuring it remains evidence-based and globally aligned.

    From discussions on precision medicine and immunotherapy to advancements in early detection and palliative care, the knowledge gained at ASCO will be instrumental in enhancing NCI-K’s capacity to lead and coordinate comprehensive cancer control initiatives nationwide. This direct engagement with the global oncology community reinforces NCI-K’s dedication to improving health outcomes for all Kenyans affected by cancer.

    We look forward to the insights and innovations our team will bring back from ASCO, further solidifying Kenya’s position in the global fight against cancer.

    #ASCO2025 #NCIK #CancerResearch #GlobalHealth #KenyaHealth #Oncology #CancerControl #Innovation

  • Major Breakthrough in Breast Cancer Treatment Costs in Kenya

    Major Breakthrough in Breast Cancer Treatment Costs in Kenya

    Kenyan breast cancer patients are about to see a significant drop in treatment costs, with sessions falling from KES 120,000 to just KES 40,000. This massive reduction comes thanks to a new partnership between the Ministry of Health (through the Social Health Authority, SHA) and Roche East Africa, officially launched by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale.

    This collaboration aims to boost financial protection for cancer patients, aligning with Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) caps breast cancer treatment sessions at KES 40,000 with no co-payment for patients. This will be implemented across all SHA-contracted facilities, including public, faith-based, and private hospitals, ensuring fair access to quality care.

    Beyond cost reduction, the partnership will also enhance access to essential medicines and diagnostics, provide training for healthcare workers in breast and cervical cancer management, and expand screening and early detection efforts. Hon. Duale emphasized the Ministry’s dedication to healthcare reform, including using digital tools to fight counterfeit medicines. He stated that the initiative is about “saving lives, promoting equity, and reinforcing the integrity of our healthcare system.”

    The launch event saw key figures present, including Roche East Africa General Manager Ms. Jacqueline Wambua, along with high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Health and related health authorities.

  • Strengthening Cancer Control in Narok County – Taking Services Closer to the Mwananchi

    Strengthening Cancer Control in Narok County – Taking Services Closer to the Mwananchi

    In its unwavering commitment to fight cancer and bring cancer prevention and control services closer to the people, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), led by Rift Valley Regional Team Lead, Ms. Linet Koskei, today held a strategic engagement with the Narok County Health Leadership.
    The meeting brought together key county health leaders, including: Chief Officer for Clinical Services, Madame Jane Kiok, Chief Officer, Preventive and Promotive Health, Madame Lucy Kashu, Ag. County Director of Health, Dr. Patrick Njoka, NCD Coordinator, Ms. Nancy Kamiti and members of the County Health Management Team (CHMT)
    The engagement focused on assessing the progress Narok County has made in cancer prevention and control, identifying existing gaps and challenges, and jointly exploring practical ways to implement sustainable solutions that will bring life-saving cancer services closer to the mwananchi.
    “Counties are crucial in our national fight against cancer,” Ms. Koskei stated. “Strong collaboration with the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) is essential to drive impact at the grassroots level. Narok County should establish a dedicated budget line for cancer prevention and control activities. This will empower the County Health Management Team (CHMT) to implement sustainable, locally responsive programs that align perfectly with the National Cancer Control Strategy 2023-2027, ultimately improving long-term health outcomes for our community.”
    As part of the visit, Ms. Koskei toured the soon-to-be-completed Oncology Unit located on the 4th floor of the new county hospital building, set for completion within the next six months. She commended the County Government for prioritizing cancer care infrastructure and integrating the unit into the new facility, which will greatly reduce the need for patients to seek treatment outside the county.
    She further reaffirmed NCI-K’s support in ensuring the oncology unit meets all national standards as outlined in the Guidelines for the Establishment of Cancer Centres, paving the way for it to become fully operational.
    This engagement marks another bold step toward building a stronger, more equitable cancer control system-one that truly meets the needs of our communities.
    Together, we are bringing cancer care closer to the people – where it matters most.

  • World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day

    World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day Set

    The World Health Assembly has taken a monumental step in the global fight against cancer by officially designating November 17th as World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day. This landmark decision, set to be observed annually starting in November 2025, highlights a collective commitment to eradicate a preventable and treatable disease. It builds upon a foundational resolution from 2020 that adopted a comprehensive global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem.

    This designation comes in recognition of the disproportionate burden cervical cancer places on women globally, particularly in developing countries and among those living with HIV. Despite being largely preventable and highly curable if detected early, it remains one of the most common causes of cancer-related morbidity and death in women. A significant challenge highlighted is the far-from-goal vaccination coverage against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the leading cause of this cancer.

    The strategy for elimination centers on highly cost-effective primary and secondary prevention approaches. This includes robust HPV vaccination programs and widespread access to screening for and treatment of precancerous lesions. The resolution emphasizes that boosting public awareness, ensuring access to vital information, and providing comprehensive services are paramount elements for effective prevention and control across the entire life course.

    In support of this global initiative, Member States are strongly urged to allocate sufficient resources to expand healthcare services for cervical cancer elimination efforts, aligning these with national priorities and universal health coverage goals. The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) has been requested to actively utilize World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day to strengthen stakeholder engagement, drive innovation, mobilize resources, and highlight progress made by Member States in their pursuit of elimination targets.

    Furthermore, the resolution calls upon all international organizations, stakeholders, and partners to enhance multilateral collaboration. Their support is vital in promoting knowledge, ensuring access to safe, affordable, and quality services, and developing effective healthcare products. This concerted global effort aims to foster solidarity across countries, pushing forward the world’s first-ever endeavor to eliminate a cancer as a public health problem.

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  • Tharaka Nithi County Prioritizes Cancer Care Initiatives with NCI-K Collaboration

    Tharaka Nithi County Prioritizes Cancer Care Initiatives with NCI-K Collaboration

    Tharaka Nithi – 15th May, 2025

    As part of its continued efforts in engaging County Governments on the implementation of the County Action Plans, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya held a meeting with Dr. Rose Micheni, Chief Officer for Medical Services, Tharaka Nithi County. Represented by Chrisantus Wekesa, the Regional Head, they discussed strengthening devolved healthcare with a focus on cancer care. Dr. Micheni expressed strong appreciation for the National Cancer Institute of Kenya for its leadership in coordinating cancer control efforts and for engaging grassroots stakeholders in shaping responsive interventions.

    She commended NCI-K’s inclusive approach and the strategic partnerships, as it spearheads efforts to support county governments in building sustainable cancer care systems. Dr. Micheni affirmed her commitment to rallying support within the County Assembly for legislation that advances cancer outcomes, notably, the establishment of a cancer centre in Tharaka Nithi; an initiative already endorsed by the County Assembly to reduce reliance on external facilities and improve local access to care.

    Additionally, Dr. Micheni acknowledged the need for increased budgetary allocation to cancer services and committed to advocating for enhanced funding to support the county’s cancer response.

    NCI-K is pleased to learn that this agenda enjoys the full backing of Dr. Micheni, H.E., the Governor Hon. Muthomi Njuki, and the county leadership, who are united in prioritizing cancer services.

    Prior to this meeting, NCI-K engaged with the Tharaka Nithi County Health Management Teams (CHMTs), and among the key issues discussed were:

    • Prioritization of Establishing a Cancer Centre. Given that the county currently lacks such a facility, this was identified as a critical need.
    • Establishment of a Cancer Registry: The need for a functional cancer registry was emphasized to enhance data collection and inform planning.
    • Public Education and Awareness:  A call was made to strengthen community sensitization and awareness on cancer prevention and early detection.
    •  Implementation of the National Cancer Control Strategy (NCCS): The team expressed commitment to aligning county efforts with the NCCS for improved cancer control outcomes.

    The Institute, through its dedicated staff, is fully determined, through constructive engagements, to support County Governments in implementing the National Cancer Control Strategy (NCCS), as discussed during the County Action Plans engagements.