UASIN GISHU INTENSIFIES BREAST CANCER AWARENESS, URGES EARLY SCREENING

The County Government of Uasin Gishu has joined the world in commemorating World Breast Cancer Day, reaffirming its commitment to early detection, breast health and improved access to cancer care. A programme supported by IMARA-BC.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim, Chief Officer for Clinical Services Ambrose Tarus, appreciated healthcare workers and partners for their contribution to cancer prevention and management.

“On behalf of the Governor, I appreciate our healthcare workers and partners for supporting the fight against breast cancer. As a Department of Health Services, we must embrace best practices that promote early detection, timely treatment and improved patient outcomes,” said Tarus.

Chief Officer for Preventive and Promotive Services Dr. Billy Lubanga, urged residents to prioritize regular breast examinations and seek screening at their nearest health facilities. He also appreciated cancer survivors for their courage and encouraged continued community sensitization.

“We must take breast cancer awareness to the community and encourage everyone to prioritize regular screening. Through our 300 trained Community Health Promoters, we are intensifying sensitization and encouraging residents to get checked. Early detection saves lives,” said Dr. Lubanga.

Director of Clinical Services Dr. Evans Kiprotich emphasized the importance of expanding cancer awareness and promoting timely screening to improve health outcomes. He encouraged residents to take advantage of available screening services and seek medical attention whenever they notice unusual changes.

Director of Preventive and Promotive Services Laban Kiprop reaffirmed the county’s commitment to supporting cancer patients. He noted that Community Health Promoters play a key role in awareness creation and linking clients to care, while survivors’ groups provide psychosocial support and encouragement.

The breast cancer survivors’ group was recognized for its vital role in offering hope, emotional support and encouragement to patients undergoing treatment. Through sharing their experiences, survivors help raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage others to seek early screening and remain in care.

Representing the Moi  Teaching and Referral Hospital  Chief Executive Officer, Director of Hematology Dr. Jesse Opakas emphasized that early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes. He encouraged women to seek breast and cervical cancer screening and men to undergo prostate cancer screening.

The county continues to offer free screening services, with mammography available at Ziwa Sub-County Hospital and cancer care services at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital.

During the exercise, 48 women and 11 men underwent clinical breast examinations, with three abnormal findings among women and one among men. Additionally, 48 women underwent cervical cancer screening, with three positive results treated through thermocoagulation.

Clients were encouraged to visit their nearest health facilities for screening and remember that early detection saves lives.