Leaders call for research on cancer link to crops

Leaders in Nandi County have called for the stepping up of health research to ascertain if chemicals used on crops are contributors to new cancer cases across the country.

The leaders mentioned cancer as a health concern, which should be tackled through prevention measures.

Aldai MP Cornely Serem who spoke in Kilibwoni area Nandi County during the burial of Mama Rael Ketter who had been diagnosed with cancer, said there is a worrying trend of rising cancer cases in the region.

Serem said there is need to relate the cause of the disease to what the locals consume and the chemicals they use to spray their food crops.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Felix Koskei, called for collaborative effort in enhancing the health situation in the country.

“We should join hands to step up awareness and initiate disease management programmes,” he said.

County executive in charge of Health Matthew Rotich, said the executive will prioritise management of chronic diseases, mainly cancer in subsequent budget allocation.