Embu hosts cancer half marathon ahead of treatment unit launch

The Embu County has embarked on a series of activities to raise funds for cancer treatment.

This comes as the county prepares to launch a cancer treatment unit at the Embu Level 5 Teaching and Referral Hospital.

According to county Health executive Jamlek Muturi, 10 clinicians have been trained on cancer treatment in readiness for the new chemotherapy treatment unit.

“We have received 10 oncology beds worth Sh2 million, equipment worth Sh4 million and start-up drugs worth Sh2 million from the national government for the cancer unit,” said Dr Muturi.

On Sunday, the county held a Cancer Half Marathon to raise more funds and create public awareness on the importance of early cancer screening and treatment.

“Through the marathon, we are hoping to raise substantial amount of money that will be used to boost the oncology kitty so that once the cancer treatment unit starts operation, it shall be sustained,” said Muturi.

Embu deputy governor David Kariuki and Embu North deputy county commissioner Jererumah Tumo flagged off the marathoners.

Broadways Bakery Limited, one of the partners in the event, gave Sh1 million. The baker's CEO Bimal Shah attended the marathon as did renowned marathoner Catherine Ndereba.

The event attracted hundreds of participants, including 20 elite runners.

According to the Embu Health Department, up to 5,000 cancer patients from the county are currently seeking treatment at the Kenyatta National Hospital and other health facilities in Nairobi and abroad.

Up to 200 new cases of cancer are reported in the county every year.