Faith Masita
Since cancer treatment services were decentralized from Nairobi to the Coast region, cervical cancer has surged as the most commonly treated cancer at the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital in Mombasa.
Doctors at the hospital’s Cancer Treatment Centre link this troubling trend to deep-rooted socioeconomic and public health challenges. Many patients present with advanced stages of the disease, highlighting gaps in early screening and awareness programs.
“Devolution has brought services closer to our communities, which is a huge win,” said a senior oncologist at the facility. “But it also exposes long-standing inequalities: many women still lack access to preventive care, regular screening, and timely treatment.”
Healthcare experts warn that without urgent interventions, cervical cancer will continue to dominate the hospital’s caseload. Public health campaigns, vaccination drives against HPV, and community education are critical to reversing the trend.
The shift in care from Nairobi has made it clear that bringing services closer is just the first step comprehensive support systems are equally vital to ensure early detection and effective treatment.
Doctors at the hospital’s Cancer Treatment Centre link this troubling trend to deep-rooted socioeconomic and public health challenges. Many patients present with advanced stages of the disease, highlighting gaps in early screening and awareness programs.
“Devolution has brought services closer to our communities, which is a huge win,” said a senior oncologist at the facility. “But it also exposes long-standing inequalities: many women still lack access to preventive care, regular screening, and timely treatment.”
Healthcare experts warn that without urgent interventions, cervical cancer will continue to dominate the hospital’s caseload. Public health campaigns, vaccination drives against HPV, and community education are critical to reversing the trend.
The shift in care from Nairobi has made it clear that bringing services closer is just the first step comprehensive support systems are equally vital to ensure early detection and effective treatment.
