The numbers are unpleasant, approximately 1.1 million new cancer cases occur each year in Africa, with about 700,000 deaths. Data estimates show a considerable increase in cancer mortality to nearly one million deaths per year by 2030, without urgent and bold interventions. Childhood cancer incidence in sub-Saharan Africa is estimated at 56.3 per million population, current projections show that Africa will account for nearly 50% of the global childhood cancer burden by 2050.
In Kenya cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. The incidence of cancer have been steadily increasing over the years, resulting in a considerable burden on the healthcare system and the economy.
The risk factors for cancer can be broadly categorized into four types namely;
- Behavioral risk factors that include tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity.
- Biological risk factors that include overweight, obesity, age, sex of the individual
- Environmental risk factors include exposure to environmental carcinogens such as chemicals agents e.g. certain viruses(Hepatitis B & C, HPV, EBV, HIV), bacteria and parasites
- Genetic risk factors.
Globally, 5-10% of all cancers are attributed to genetic defects and 90-95% to environmental and lifestyle factors such as cigarette smoking, diet, alcohol and physical inactivity.
Article 43 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 confers on every person the right to the highest attainable standard of health, therefore the Government of Kenya, in collaboration with national and international partners, continue to address the cancer burden in the country, focusing on prevention, early detection, treatment, and improving the overall well-being of cancer patients and survivors.
Currently, Kenya faces a significant challenge when it comes to late-stage diagnosis of cancer, leading to poorer treatment outcomes and decreased survival rates. Limited awareness of cancer symptoms and risk factors, as well as barriers to accessing healthcare, contribute to late-stage diagnosis. However, this is gradually improving, Initiatives have been launched to increase awareness, promote regular screening, and provide training for healthcare professionals in cancer screening and early detection.