Cancer Treatment Access a Challenge in Kenya

‌ Updated⁣ June 14, 2025

nairobi, Kenya‌ – Cancer ​poses a significant health challenge in Kenya, ranking as the ‌third leading cause of death after infectious and cardiovascular ⁢diseases. The nation of over 52 million people faces increasing demands for cancer treatment, particularly radiotherapy, but access remains ⁣limited.

According ⁢to the National institutes of Health, radiotherapy⁤ plays a crucial​ role in ⁣cancer care, with approximately 50%⁤ of cancer patients receiving‍ it as part of their treatment. In about 40% of thes ⁤cases, the goal is curative.

However, several factors impede effective cancer treatment in Kenya. Centralized services, insufficient facilities, low goverment ​funding, and⁣ widespread poverty create considerable​ barriers for patients seeking care. These challenges highlight the urgent need ‍for‍ improved cancer care infrastructure and accessibility​ across the country. Addressing these issues is critical to improving outcomes for cancer patients in Kenya.