The Ministry of Health has issued a strong call for immediate action to combat cervical cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among Kenyan women.

Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah M. Barasa, through a speech delivered by Dr. Edward Serem at a cervical cancer awareness media briefing, emphasized the need to shift from a curative healthcare approach to a preventive model.

This aligns with the country’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals and focuses on expanding HPV vaccination, routine screenings, and timely treatment.

Dr. Barasa highlighted the alarming statistics from the GLOBOCAN 2022 report, which show that cervical cancer accounts for 5,845 new cases and 3,591 deaths annually in Kenya.

“The fight against cervical cancer is not just about statistics; it’s about saving lives,” she stated, urging bold steps to ensure women and girls have access to preventive services.

Key measures announced include integrating cervical cancer prevention into primary healthcare services, promoting HPV vaccination for girls aged 10 to 14, and encouraging routine cervical screenings for women.

Dr. Barasa also urged the media to play a vital role in raising awareness, dispelling myths about HPV vaccines, and educating the public on early detection and treatment.

She praised the efforts of the STOP Cervical Cancer coalition, cancer survivors advocating for early screening, and healthcare providers for their commitment to addressing the disease.

Dr. Barasa reiterated that eliminating cervical cancer is achievable with collective efforts from the government, healthcare providers, media, and the public.

“Let us turn awareness into action and save lives,” she urged, calling for united action to reduce the burden of cervical cancer in Kenya.

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