Cancer Cases Rise as Screening Remains Low

Recent reports are raising alarm over a surge in cancer cases across Kenya, coinciding with persistently low rates of early detection. County leaders and health officials warn that many Kenyans are suffering from late-stage diagnoses, putting lives at risk. Although national data shows that only about 16% of the population takes part in regular cancer screening, the disease continues to be one of the top killers, with breast, cervical, prostate, and esophageal cancers among the most reported.
Experts point to a complex set of drivers behind the rising burden. Changing lifestyles — including poor diets, sedentary behavior, and increased exposure to pollution — combine with infections such as HPV and hepatitis to drive cancer risk.Yet, access to screening remains limited: according to Ministry of Health data, only a fraction of public health facilities offer cancer screening services, and many Kenyans — especially in low-income and rural communities — are unaware of available services or are deterred by cost. A study also found that fear of diagnosis and the high cost of cancer care lead many patients to delay or avoid checking, with a large share only presenting when the disease has advanced.
The impact of late diagnosis is dire, with more than 70% of patients being treated at advanced stages when outcomes are poorer and treatment is more expensive. In response, health leaders have called for expanded screening programmes, especially in underserved counties. In Tharaka Nithi County, for instance, hospital officials are urging residents to go for annual checks and self-exams, while advocating for better funding and local radiotherapy services.Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health is working with international partners to strengthen cancer registries and data systems, a move that could help guide future policy and improve access. However, health insiders stress that without sustained investment in screening, treatment, and public awareness, Kenya may continue to see high mortality rates from a disease that is largely preventable or manageable when caught early.