Cancer patients in Kirinyaga and neighbouring counties now have access to treatment closer to home, thanks to the Kerugoya Hospital Cancer Centre.
The cancer centre provides screenings for multiple types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, and gastrointestinal cancers.
Additionally, it offers consultations, patient education, and ongoing follow-up services.
One of the key initiatives at the centre includes monthly support sessions held on the first Thursday of each month.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru described the centre as a game-changer, highlighting its role in saving lives and improving healthcare access across the Mt. Kenya region.
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"With the cancer centre, many people in Kirinyaga can now access the care they need under one roof, surrounded by their loved ones, and without the burden of travelling long distances to referral hospitals," she said.
Waiguru noted the economic and emotional toll cancer takes on families, pointing to the disease's growing burden.
"In 2020, the Global Cancer Observatory estimated over 42,000 new cancer cases and more than 27,000 cancer-related deaths in Kenya. Here in Kirinyaga, one in every ten deaths is linked to cancer, making it the second leading cause of premature death in our county," she added.
Oncology Nurse Robert Karanja shared that the centre sees approximately 150 patients each month.
"We conduct screenings, provide consultations, guide patients through treatment, and ensure consistent follow-ups. Breast cancer is the most common diagnosis we handle, accounting for approximately 23% of cases," he said.
Several patients, including Alice Muriuki, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2023, have shared how the facility has changed their lives.
"This clinic has helped me so much. I was traumatized at first, but coming here gave me hope. The doctors ensure we eat well, receive proper medication, and we have a strong support group that keeps us going," she said.
Another patient, Luka Wanjohi, who has been battling prostate cancer since 2022, also praised the centre after receiving care both in Kerugoya and at Kenyatta University Teaching and Referral Hospital.
"I have like the services at this cancer centre. The staff are friendly, and we encourage each other here. I am grateful to the county government for giving us this facility," he echoed.
