Embu Level 5 Hospital has sounded the alarm over a surge in breast cancer cases, identifying it as the most common cancer reported at the facility in the last five years.
According to hospital data, 1,644 cancer cases have been recorded since 2020, with breast cancer accounting for 17 percent of all diagnoses. Other leading cancers include prostate, cervical, oesophageal, and stomach cancers, highlighting the region’s growing cancer burden.
Cancer specialist Dr. Jacinta Rwamba said that while more women are coming forward for screening and treatment, there is a worrying trend an increasing number of younger women are being diagnosed with breast cancer.
“We’re seeing more women coming in for screening, but what’s alarming is that the age bracket is shifting downwards,” Dr. Rwamba explained. “We’re now diagnosing cases among younger women who were previously not considered high-risk.”
Changing Lifestyles and Rising Risk
Dr. Rwamba linked the increase in breast cancer cases to a combination of factors including genetics, delayed childbirth, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle changes such as poor diets, alcohol consumption, and reduced physical activity.
She further noted that hormone replacement therapy during menopause can slightly increase risk, as estrogen and progestin hormones influence breast tissue growth.
“Lifestyle modification and early screening are critical. Many of these cancers can be detected early when treatment outcomes are much better,” she said.
Push for Early Detection and Awareness
Dr. Rwamba urged women, particularly those aged 40 and above or with a family history of breast cancer, to undergo regular checkups, self-examinations, and mammography screenings.
“Early detection can mean the difference between life and death,” she emphasized. “The earlier a cancer is found, the higher the chance of successful treatment.”
As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Embu Level 5 Hospital has rolled out free and subsidised screening services throughout October. The hospital has also launched a countywide awareness campaign aimed at educating communities about early signs, prevention, and the importance of timely diagnosis.
“We want to demystify cancer,” Dr. Rwamba added. “It’s not a death sentence if detected early. The power to fight it lies in awareness and timely action.”
