In the past week, there have been heightened activities geared towards helping to create greater awareness of a dangerous killer disease — cancer. The disease, which gradually wipes out healthy cells in the body, has gained prominence over the years. The causes have been diverse; from hereditary traits to diet and the modern lifestyles. Even as debate rages over some of the causes, warnings have been posted over excessive drinking of alcohol, drug abuse, exposure to carcinogens and excess consumption of highly processed fast foods.
Still, a sure way to avoid an early grave has been early detection where treatment can be successfully administered in most cases.
It is, therefore, quite alarming that only about three per cent of men in Kenya have undergone cancer screening and only an estimated 24 per cent of women have been tested.
Cancer has ruined many families owing to the high cost of treatment, therefore those at risk must take more care about what they drink or eat.
Correspondingly, national and county governments should equip more hospitals with resources to improve treatment.
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An initiative between the Indian and Kenyan governments to establish an advanced cancer treatment centre here is a step in the right direction.