National Cancer Institute Kenya

Tag: Cancer Prevention Kenya

  • Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month: The Urgency of Early Detection

    Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month: The Urgency of Early Detection

    November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on one of the most challenging cancers that is often called the “silent killer” because it rarely shows symptoms in its early stages.

    For many Kenyans, the first sign is subtle: a persistent stomach ache, unexplained weight loss, or yellowing of the eyes. By the time these symptoms appear, the disease may already be advanced.

    “Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to detect early, which is why awareness is so important,” says Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of NCI-K. “Recognizing symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can make a real difference.”

    NCI-K CEO Dr. Elias Melly

    Deep dive into Pancreatic Cancer

    The pancreas is a vital organ that aids digestion and regulates blood sugar. When cancer cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, they can spread quickly to other parts of the body.

    Detection requires a combination of imaging techniques, such as CT, MRI, and PET scans, as well as pathology, in which tissue samples are examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

    Thanks to NCI-K’s coordinated efforts, many counties across Kenya now have access to modern diagnostic tools and trained specialists. This ensures that patients can receive timely testing and care closer to home.


    Every Kenyan should feel empowered to discuss their health and seek medical advice without delay. Early detection remains the most effective strategy against pancreatic cancer.
     
    – Dr. Elias Melly

    Human Impact

    Across Kenya, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed only after symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss become severe. Many patients seek care late, unaware that early, subtle signs could have prompted timely intervention. “Even mild changes in your health can be a signal to consult a doctor,” says Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of NCI-K. “Raising awareness and encouraging early check-ups is key; early detection saves lives.”

    Your next move

    • Know the symptoms: abdominal pain, jaundice, unexplained weight loss, digestive difficulties.
    • Seek medical advice early: Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen.
    • Participate in screenings: Available at local health facilities or through NCI-K initiatives.
    • Raise awareness: Talk to your family, friends, and community about pancreatic cancer.

    NCI-K’s Commitment

    The National Cancer Institute of Kenya is dedicated to ensuring that all Kenyans have access to quality cancer care from awareness and prevention to diagnosis and treatment. During Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, NCI-K calls on communities to take proactive steps, join awareness campaigns, and prioritize their health. Early detection and prompt medical care save lives. Together, we can lessen the impact of pancreatic cancer in Kenya,” Dr. Melly concludes

  • Liver Cancer Crisis: Epidemic hiding in plain sight

    Liver Cancer Crisis: Epidemic hiding in plain sight

    Every October, during Liver Cancer Awareness Month, we at the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI–K) join the global health community in raising awareness about one of the world’s most preventable yet deadliest cancers, liver cancer.
    Liver cancer rarely announces itself until it’s too late, yet this deadly disease is largely preventable through vaccination, screening, and healthier lifestyle choices. Every year, we renew our commitment to educating the public, promoting early detection, and empowering Kenyans to take proactive steps for their health.  With cases on the rise locally, it serves as a stark reminder that awareness without action is insufficient. Let’s fight back together!

    The Growing threat in Kenya

    Liver cancer ranks among the country’s top causes of cancer-related deaths, with hundreds of new cases reported annually. A 2022 media report referencing data shared by NCI–K CEO Dr. Elias Melly noted that liver cancer was the 11th deadliest cancer in Kenya, with over 800 new cases recorded that year.

    “Kenya is seeing a growing cancer burden linked to preventable risk factors,” Dr. Melly has emphasized in several public statements. “Strengthening prevention, from hepatitis B vaccination to public education, remains the foundation of saving lives.” This institutional focus aligns with the national goal of expanding cancer screening and vaccination programs, particularly in counties where access to diagnostic services remains limited.

    Expert Perspective: ‘A Silent Epidemic’

    In an interview on NTV’s Your Health Show, Kenyan oncologist Dr. Andrew Odhiambo described liver cancer as “a silent epidemic” that often goes unnoticed until it’s too advanced for treatment.

    “By the time many patients arrive in hospital, their liver is already beyond repair,” Dr. Odhiambo noted, urging Kenyans to take early screening and vaccination seriously. His warning reflects a broader concern among clinicians: that low awareness, delayed diagnosis, and untreated hepatitis infections are driving the country’s liver cancer cases.

    Watch the whole discussion on NTV’s Your Health Show.

    Preventing Liver Cancer: Knowledge, Vaccination, and Early Screening

     As NCI–K, we continue to emphasize that most cases of liver cancer can be prevented through informed choices and proactive health practices. Vaccination against hepatitis B, one of the leading causes of liver cancer, remains the single most effective preventive measure. We also urge Kenyans to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, ensure proper food storage to prevent aflatoxin contamination, and seek early screening, especially for individuals living with chronic hepatitis or a family history of liver disease. Maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise further protects against fatty liver disease and its related complications.

    Through sustained public education, partnerships, and nationwide campaigns, NCI–K remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring every Kenyan can access accurate information, early detection, and quality preventive services in the fight against liver cancer.

    From awareness to action

    Liver cancer does not announce itself, but its prevention depends on awareness and timely action. This Liver Cancer Awareness Month, we urge all Kenyans to discuss screening and vaccination with their healthcare providers.

    “Early detection saves lives. Our goal is to move Kenya from late diagnosis to early prevention,” says Dr. Melly.

  • Silence and Stigma

    Silence and Stigma

    Every September, the world comes together to shine a light on four cancers — Blood, Childhood, Gynaecological, and Prostate. In Kenya, awareness has grown, yet silence and stigma still hold many back from seeking timely testing and diagnosis when it matters most. Each year, thousands of lives are lost not only to cancer itself but also to the quiet fear that surrounds it. Recent statistics paint a sobering picture: about 45,000 new cases and 29,000 deaths annually. Behind these numbers lies a deeper truth — too many Kenyans are diagnosed late, not because hospitals cannot help, but silence, fear, and stigma delay the very first step to care. Why many wait until it is too late is a question whose answer only lies in homes and communities.

    Kenya has not been silent on paper. The Kenya Cancer Care Policy 2019–2030 calls for greater awareness, prevention, early detection, and improved caregiving. The Mental Health Policy also warns that stigma is a stumbling block to timely diagnosis, one that deepens the stress for patients and their families. Our CEO, Dr. Elias Melly, reminds us that policies only come alive when they reach people. “We will win in the community, not in the clinics. Investing one dollar in prevention saves sixteen in treatment.” He further emphasized that, as the country moves towards primary care, there is an urgent need to train healthcare workers and community health promoters to recognize symptoms early.

    Yet policies and plans only tell part of the story. Behind every statistic is a human face, and it is often survivors who remind us what silence and stigma really cost. At the 2nd  National Cancer Summit, childhood cancer survivor Robert recalled: “I was only six when I was diagnosed. There were no pediatric wards and no one to explain what was going on. The pain wasn’t just physical; it was emotional. An invisible scar I still carry to date.” Other survivors at the forum echoed the same pain, with one saying: “The hardest part was not the treatment — it was the silence. People avoided me. They whispered instead of asking how I was.”

    Cancer is not always a death sentence, but silence can be. Breaking stigma begins with open conversations- in families, workplaces, churches, and communities. Speaking up encourages early screening, offering support restores dignity, and challenging myths saves lives. As we mark this September of awareness, let us remember: silence and stigma are battles we can all fight, and by doing so, we give more Kenyans the chance not just to survive, but to live fully.