Kenyans have been encouraged to undergo early cancer screening to reduce the severity of the disease and improve survival rates. Cancer, which is the third leading cause of death in Kenya, poses a significant burden on families, communities, and the healthcare system, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Dr. Kibet Shikuku, a Hematologist at Nairobi West Hospital, highlighted the urgent need to raise public awareness about blood cancers, including their symptoms, risk factors, and available treatments.
Dr. Shikuku explained that blood cancer, a malignancy originating in the bone marrow, occurs when abnormal blood cells overpower normal ones, leading to various health complications. He emphasized that symptoms of leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma include unexplained weight loss, bruising or bleeding, lumps or swelling, shortness of breath, night sweats, severe infections, recurrent fever, itchy skin, bone, joint, or abdominal pain, fatigue, and a pale complexion.
Speaking during Blood Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Shikuku urged the public to be vigilant and proactive about these symptoms to facilitate early detection and treatment.
“The exact causes of blood cancer are not fully understood, but it is believed that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in its development,” Dr. Shikuku said. “Risk factors include age, sex, ethnicity, family history, exposure to radiation or chemicals, and other health conditions.”
He highlighted that one of the most effective treatments for blood cancer is Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT). “BMT involves replacing damaged or diseased bone marrow with healthy cells to restore normal blood cell production,” Dr. Shikuku explained.
“At The Nairobi West Hospital’s Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, we offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for blood disorders,” he continued. “Our services include routine blood count tests, cell and bone marrow transplantation, and specialized care for conditions like low or high red blood cell counts and genetic blood diseases. We support patients from the initial diagnosis through ongoing treatment and care.”
Dr. Shikuku emphasized the importance of Blood Cancer Awareness Month. “This month is crucial for promoting understanding and early detection of blood cancer. Increased awareness can lead to better prevention, earlier diagnosis, improved outcomes, and ultimately save lives,” he said.
