The Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to cancer prevention, screening and treatment services across the country, saying early detection remains the most effective way to reduce cancer-related deaths.
Speaking during the launch of the Mobile Cancer Screening Clinic (Clinic on Wheels) and the 15th Anniversary celebrations of the Awareness Cancer Foundation (ACF) at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga said breast, cervical and prostate cancers continue to claim many lives despite being preventable and treatable when diagnosed early.
In remarks delivered on his behalf by the Head of the National Cancer Control Programme, Dr. Joan Paula Bor, Dr. Oluga described the mobile cancer clinic as a major milestone in bringing lifesaving screening services closer to communities.
He noted that the initiative will particularly benefit people who face barriers such as long travel distances, high healthcare costs, limited time and low awareness about cancer screening.
“The launch of the mobile cancer clinic marks an important step in strengthening cancer prevention and control by making screening services more accessible to communities,” the statement read.
Dr. Oluga urged Kenyans to take advantage of the available cancer screening services and encouraged parents and guardians to ensure eligible children receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which protects against cervical cancer.
The Principal Secretary also reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding cancer screening services nationwide, noting that cancer screening and related healthcare services are covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA).
He said the Ministry of Health and its partners, including the Awareness Cancer Foundation, are working together to ensure every Kenyan has access to timely, quality cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and comprehensive care.
Dr. Oluga further commended the Awareness Cancer Foundation for its 15 years of service, describing the milestone as a testament to resilience, dedication and strong partnerships in the fight against cancer.
“Fifteen years is not a small achievement. It represents showing up consistently, listening to communities, building partnerships and remaining steadfast in the fight against cancer,” he said.
The launch of the Clinic on Wheels is expected to boost early cancer detection efforts by taking screening services directly to underserved communities, supporting the government’s broader goal of reducing cancer-related illnesses and deaths through early diagnosis and timely treatment.
