Uasin Gishu county First Lady Salina Bii has stepped up sensitisation on breast and cervical cancer, which she says are a major threat to the lives of many women.
She has emerged as a strong voice in the fight against cancer, urging residents to prioritise regular screening for early detection.
Salina said frequent screening remains the most effective way to combat the growing burden of cancer, urging men and women to take charge of their health.
“Cancer is treatable when detected early. I encourage everyone to go for regular screening. Do not wait for symptoms. Early detection can make the difference between life and loss,” she said.
She spoke during a breast and cervical cancer medical camp at Meibeki Health Facility in Karuna/Meibeki ward.
The first lady said despite increasing awareness, many people still seek medical attention when the disease has already reached advanced stages — a challenge that can be addressed through continuous community education and accessible screening services.
Salina reaffirmed her commitment to championing cancer awareness, focusing on empowering communities with knowledge and promoting preventive health practices.
“We must break the silence, end the stigma and make cancer screening a routine part of our lives. Together, we can build a healthier and more informed society,” she said.
The first lady’s remarks came as Uasin Gishu county continues to strengthen partnerships under the Equity in Cancer Care Project with Sweden’s Region Östergötland.
The project seeks to improve cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment services across the county.
MCA James Serem, underscored the importance of cancer awareness and early detection, saying no life should be lost simply because of late diagnosis.
Uasin Gishu county is seeking to upscale cancer screening to effectively fight the disease.
The county plans to integrate screening for the disease in all its healthcare programmes and at all levels of service.
Health executive Joseph Lagat underscored the importance of cancer prevention as the cornerstone of reducing the disease’s burden, saying the department of health is implementing measures to strengthen prevention and early detection.
He said the county will work with all local and external partners to put in place robust screening programmes in all rural health facilities.
Lagat spoke during a steering group meeting with delegates from Region Östergötland representatives.
He said the county is committed to integrating cancer screening into routine medical camps and community health outreaches.
The CEC said the approach will enhance awareness and encourage residents to embrace regular screening and early diagnosis.
Community awareness and sensitisation campaigns will also be enhanced under the plan to tackle cancer burden in the region.
Many families deplete their resources while trying manage the disease that now affects many people.
“Prevention will sort out the cancers. We are working to establish strong measures on the ground to ensure this becomes a reality,” Lagat said.
He said community health promoters (CHPs) have been instrumental in sensitising residents at the grassroots level.
“We will build the capacity of the CHPs and use them to upscale the sensitisation on cancer as part of efforts to ensure better health for our people,” Lagat said.
The visiting Swedish delegation included Andreas Westoo (majority leader), Kirsten Sjoberg (opposition representative) and Peter Berrgen (head of project).
They praised the county’s efforts in strengthening primary healthcare and promoting preventive health strategies.
BY MATHEWS NDANYI
