Submitted by Health on Tue, 2012-10-30 10:44
- STORIES FROM MAAI MAHIU, KENYA -
Cervical and Breast Cancer have become a major threat to our society. According to a speech by the Minister of Public Health on October 26th, 49 Kenyans die daily from Cancer. This statistics covers reported cases only, with all other cases within the villages remaining unknown. The Minister of Public Health further encouraged people both young and old to be screened for Breast and Cervical Cancer, which are becoming more common in society.
CTC Health Department in partnership with the Ministry of Health and local clinics is fortunate enough to be on the forefront of educating the community of Maai Mahiu and its surrounding areas on these types of Cancer.
In the spirit of Cancer Awareness Month, the sensitization program has been up and running for the entire month and is targeting various age groups such as youth in schools, the elderly, and men and women in the community. A total of 156 students within CTC’s School Health Club went through training sessions on Cervical and Breast Cancer. Another 814 people within CTC programs such as the Malaika Mums, GAPA support groups, Adult Literacy students as well as local church goers, all went through interactive sessions.
The trainings cover:
- Risk factors
- Signs and symptoms
- Prevention
- Home self examination for Breast Cancer
As a result, 135 women were referred to our partnering health facilities for further screenings with close to 20 women screened. Those who tested positive were referred to Naivasha District Hospital and Kijabe Mission Hospital for further medical assistance.
Based on the statistics collected throughout this month, CTC plans to intensify the Health Program’s Cancer Campaign to more than 2,000 community members. The program encourages even worldwide sensitization and screening.
Blog By:
Rahab Wanjira, HIV/AIDS Counselor
