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NAIROBI, KENYA: The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has raised concern over the low level of cancer awareness in the country that leads to thousands of deaths yearly.
KMA Chairperson Elly Nyaim also pointed out the limited number of cancer management centres.
"There are only two centres, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, in the county that deal with the large number of cancer cases," said Dr Nyaim.
Statistics from the Health ministry indicate 22,000 people die annually from cancer-related complications while 28,000 new cases are reported yearly.
It is also ranked as the third major killer after infectious and cardiovascular diseases, with a higher percentage affecting the younger generation.
Sixty per cent of Kenyans affected by cancer are below 70 years, with about 70 to 80 per cent cases diagnosed in late stages.
"It is now possible to treat cancer when detected early, but this late diagnosis leaves doctors with no treatment option but to try and ease the pain of the patients," said Nyaim.
CAMPAIGN UNVEILED
He was speaking yesterday at KMA headquarters during the launch of a campaign aimed at raising Sh100 million to treat cancer in children while also raising awareness.
Through the drive, which will run until February 15, 2015 (International Childhood Cancer Day), children countrywide are encouraged to contribute Sh200 or more every month to go towards the kitty.
Nyaim also called on corporate organisations to complement the children's efforts, including adopting a child for treatment where possible.
"We hope this initiative will complement other efforts by the Government and stakeholders in accelerating action against cancer.
As we all know, synergies and concerted effort are much needed," he said.
KMA has also enlisted the services of paediatric oncologists to assist in the drive, despite the limited number of trained oncologists in Kenya.
Health Cabinet Secretary James Macharia earlier this year announced that there are only 12 trained oncologists operating in public hospitals.
The drive is the second phase of KMA's Bila Cancer Society Campaign launched last year focused on raising awareness on early detection and management of the disease.
The funds raised, Sh5 million, were used for various activities including cancer screening services and a scientific conference.
Nyiam said a visit to by KMA to KNH cancer paediatric ward exposed the critical challenges facing children with various cancers, which informed their decision.
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