Kilifi records 126 breast cancer cases in a year, accounting for 22 per cent of cancer cases

Kilifi records 126 breast cancer cases in a year, accounting for 22 per cent of cancer cases

However, two patients who joined the programme when their disease was already at an advanced stage have since died. The deaths underline the challenges of identifying the disease early enough for patients to receive timely care.

Kilifi County recorded 126 breast cancer cases between 2025 and 2026, accounting for 22 per cent of cancer cases among residents, according to county health records, as health officials and community organisations push for earlier diagnosis and improved access to treatment.

The figures have raised concerns over the need to expand screening services, particularly in rural communities where patients may struggle to access timely medical care.

The county government is working with health stakeholders, including the Steps of Hope organisation, to increase public awareness of breast cancer and encourage residents to seek screening and treatment before the disease advances.

The head of Operation Kilifi County Emergency Medical Services, Hassina Nassir, said the county was working with partners to strengthen community outreach and improve access to cancer services.

She said Kilifi had a cancer centre and was conducting regular monitoring and mobile clinics to reach residents who might otherwise have difficulty accessing healthcare.

Hassina said community-based initiatives had also given hope to families who previously watched relatives suffer from breast cancer without the financial means to obtain treatment.

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The Steps of Hope organisation, which began operating two years ago, has taken on 10 breast cancer patients, according to its director, Charity Karimi.

However, two patients who joined the programme when their disease was already at an advanced stage have since died.

The deaths underline the challenges of identifying the disease early enough for patients to receive timely care.

Karimi said the organisation was working with cancer specialists in Kilifi and Mombasa to support patients at different stages of treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

She said the group was collaborating with the Kilifi County Department of Health to organise activities aimed at taking cancer screening services closer to communities.

The initiative is intended to improve awareness of the disease and encourage residents to seek medical attention when they notice possible symptoms.

Karimi spoke as activities to mark World Breast Cancer Awareness Month got underway in Malindi, calling for stronger efforts to promote early detection, timely treatment and access to quality care.

Breast cancer awareness campaigns often focus on encouraging people to recognise possible warning signs and seek medical assessment rather than waiting until symptoms become severe.

For patients who require prolonged treatment, the cost and availability of care can also place pressure on families, making support from community organisations an important part of their ability to navigate the healthcare system.

Health officials and their partners are seeking to address these gaps through awareness campaigns, mobile clinics and closer cooperation with community organisations.

The county's efforts will depend on whether residents can access screening and, where necessary, proceed to diagnosis and treatment without delays.

For families already caring for patients, the challenge extends beyond awareness to securing the medical services and support needed throughout treatment.