The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) has released alarming data showing that five types of cancer—breast, cervical, prostate, oesophageal, and colorectal—are the main causes of cancer-related deaths in the country.
These were termed the “Big Five” by NCI-K Chairperson Dr. Timothy Olweny, who called for immediate and stronger action to prevent these cancers from spreading further and claiming more lives.
Speaking on Wednesday, July 29, Olweny stressed the importance of prevention as the most effective way to tackle the growing cancer crisis.
He pointed out that while breast and cervical cancers primarily affect women, prostate cancer is exclusive to men, but oesophageal and colorectal cancers impact both genders.
He also warned that the real cost of cancer goes beyond just the numbers—it deeply affects families emotionally and financially. Many households are pushed into serious debt and poverty due to the high cost of cancer care, especially when it’s detected at a late stage.
“When we say tens of thousands are dying, and that might even be a low estimate, it shows that cancer is a serious national emergency,” Olweny stated.
“If we focus our energy on managing these Big Five cancers, we could greatly reduce the impact cancer is having on our society,” he added.
The Numbers Behind the Big Five
Data from international cancer monitoring agencies like GLOBOCAN show worrying trends in new cancer cases each year:
- Breast cancer leads the list with 6,799 to 7,243 new cases every year, making it the most common cancer among Kenyan women.
- Cervical cancer follows closely, with around 5,236 to 5,250 new cases yearly. It is not only the second most common among women but also the top cause of cancer deaths in women.
- Prostate cancer, which only affects men, records 2,800 to 3,412 new cases annually, ranking it as the most widespread cancer among Kenyan men.
- Oesophageal cancer, often linked to poor diets and lifestyle habits, causes 3,000 to 4,300 new cases per year. It’s particularly widespread in Central and Western Kenya, and is especially dangerous due to how often it’s caught late.
- Colorectal cancer, which affects the colon and rectum, is rising sharply with 1,354 to 1,900 new cases each year. Symptoms include persistent stomach pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, fatigue, and sudden weight loss.
Together, these five cancers make up more than 52% of all the 42,116 new cancer cases reported annually in Kenya. Since 2020, cancer has claimed the lives of at least 27,092 people, showing just how serious the issue has become.
To fight this epidemic, Dr. Olweny called for increased focus on prevention, early screening, prompt diagnosis, effective treatment, and palliative care. He also emphasized the importance of funding the National Cancer Institute adequately so it can expand its reach and effectively carry out its mission to reduce cancer cases and save lives.
In short, Kenya’s war on cancer can only be won through a combination of awareness, healthcare access, and political will, especially when it comes to the Big Five.
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