Nakuru County took a bold step in the fight against cervical cancer by hosting a week-long awareness campaign from January 20 to 24, 2024. Led by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Kenya in collaboration with key stakeholders, including Kilele Health Association, the initiative aimed to to reduce cervical cancer morbidity and mortality through public awareness, HPV Vaccination and expanding screening across 11 sub-counties facilities; Nakuru County Referral Hospital, Naivasha, Gilgil, Annex, Lanet HC, Bahati, Njoro, Elburgon, Molo, Olenguruone and Rongai Health Center.

The campaign aimed to reduce cervical cancer morbidity and mortality by increasing awareness, promoting preventive measures, and facilitating early detection. A significant milestone was the launch of the Oncoprotein HPV Rapid Antigen Testing, an innovative screening method expected to enhance early detection and improve healthcare access.

Why This Campaign Matters

The campaign played a crucial role in:

• Reaching Underserved Communities: Many rural areas lack access to education, screening, and HPV vaccination services.
• Introducing Innovative Screening Technology: The Oncoprotein HPV Rapid Antigen Testing offers an efficient and scalable solution for early detection, particularly in resource-limited settings.
• Scaling HPV Immunization: Vaccinating girls aged 10-14 significantly reduces future cervical cancer cases.
• Addressing Health Disparities: The initiative addressed cultural misconceptions and empowered communities to prioritize their health.
• Strengthening Awareness and Screening Uptake: The campaign promoted HPV-based screening as a key strategy in reducing cervical cancer deaths.

Key activities included:

• Public Education & Awareness Campaigns addressing cervical cancer prevention, symptoms, and myths, with educational materials distributed.
• Free Screening Services for cervical, breast, and prostate cancer, alongside HIV testing.
• HPV Vaccination for girls aged 10
• Cervical Cancer Awareness Walk, launching the HPV Vaccination and Cervical Cancer Awareness Campaign at Nakuru PGH, Level 6.

A Step Toward a Healthier Future

Speaking at the event, Dr. Elias Melly, CEO of NCI Kenya, emphasized the significance of continued collaboration in the fight against cervical cancer.

“This initiative is a game-changer. By increasing access to screening and vaccination, we are empowering communities with life-saving interventions. Sustaining these efforts beyond the awareness month is key to eliminating cervical cancer.”

As Kenya strives to meet the World Health Organization’s 2030 cervical cancer elimination targets, Nakuru’s campaign serves as a model for other counties. With increased investment in screening technology, vaccination, and public awareness, the country is making strides toward a future where cervical cancer is no longer a threat to women’s health.