Nyeri Member of the County Assembly, Agnes Wachira, in collaboration with Tetu Technical & Vocational College, hosted a vital cancer sensitization
Nyeri Member of the County Assembly, Agnes Wachira, in collaboration with Tetu Technical & Vocational College, hosted a vital cancer sensitization forum aimed at promoting the importance of early screening and preventive healthy living. This annual event, held every October, is a cornerstone of the college’s calendar, ensuring that students engage with oncologists and inspiring cancer survivors.
Chief Principal Madam Catherine Gikonyo emphasized the significance of this initiative, which not only educates but also builds a supportive community around cancer awareness.
During the forum, Lydia Warui, an oncologist nurse from the Nyeri County Referral Hospital Cancer Unit, delivered an informative presentation on cancer causes and preventive measures. She highlighted the crucial role of early screening and lifestyle changes in reducing cancer risks.
The event also featured testimonials from Nyeri Youth Cancer victors and champions, who shared their inspiring journeys of overcoming cancer and living cancer-free.
Their stories served as a poignant reminder that cancer affects individuals of all ages, underscoring the necessity of healthy lifestyles and eating habits.
Warui pointed out that lifestyle choices, such as alcohol consumption and smoking, significantly contribute to specific cancers, including throat and cervical cancer.
Hon. Agnes urged community members to prioritize early screening, noting that timely detection can save lives and alleviate the disease burden on families and the healthcare system. She encouraged residents to register with the government healthcare scheme (SHA) to ensure continued access to medical care following the transition from the former NHIF scheme.
In a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Health, the Nyeri County Government has deployed Community Health Promoters to enhance access to health services at the household level. Residents are encouraged to engage these promoters to dispel cancer myths and seek answers to their health questions. Hon. Wachira cautioned against self-diagnosis and the use of over-the-counter medications, advocating for regular visits to health facilities for early detection and treatment.
The MCA announced that girls aged 10-14 can receive the HPV vaccine against cervical cancer at no cost at all county government health facilities. Additionally, she urged women aged 25-49 to undergo regular screenings and encouraged men to embrace early screening for breast, throat, and testicular cancers, as statistics reveal that men are often reluctant to seek medical check-ups.
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