Makueni County Sees Alarming 31% Rise in Cancer Cases
Makueni County has recorded a significant 31% increase in cancer cases over the past year, prompting the county administration to intensify cancer prevention and treatment efforts. The revelation came during World Cancer Day at Kathonzweni Health Centre, where Governor Mutula’s wife, Anita Mutula, described the surge as alarming. Data from Makueni County Referral Hospital shows that cancer diagnoses rose from 1,745 cases in 2023 to 2,270 in 2024, highlighting an urgent need for expanded treatment facilities and enhanced community awareness.
The county’s October 2024 surgical camp revealed a high incidence of prostate cancer, while a concurrent breast cancer screening week recorded a 9.8% positivity rate. Hospital records indicate that breast cancer remains the most prevalent, with 555 cases, followed by prostate cancer at 479 cases and cervical cancer at 210 cases. Mrs. Mutula also highlighted low uptake of the HPV vaccine, emphasizing the importance of vaccinating young girls to prevent cervical cancer. To address early detection, she launched a three-month community-based digital screening program covering breast, cervical, and prostate cancers.
Health officials, including Executive Committee Member for Health Dr. Paul Musila, urged residents to participate in screenings and make use of treatment services at the county referral hospital. Partnerships with organizations such as the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, Roche, AstraZeneca, and the Savannah Global Health Institute are supporting the county’s fight against cancer. With these interventions, Makueni County hopes to enhance early diagnosis, reduce mortality, and improve overall cancer care for its residents.