Nyeri Nominated MCA Hon. Agnes Wachira, in collaboration with Tetu Technical and Vocational College, recently hosted a cancer sensitization forum focusing on the importance of early screening and preventive healthy living.
The forum, held at Tetu Technical College, has now become an annual event, spearheaded by the institution’s Chief Principal, Madam Catherine Gikonyo. Each October, students have the opportunity to interact with oncologists and young cancer survivors, known as cancer victors, who share their experiences.
During the forum, Lydia Warui, an oncology nurse at the Nyeri County Referral Hospital’s Cancer Unit, educated students and staff on the causes of cancer and the importance of preventive measures such as early screening and lifestyle changes. She emphasized that adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce cancer risks.
Young cancer victors from Nyeri shared their personal stories of overcoming the disease, using their journeys to remind their peers that cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age. They also highlighted the importance of adhering to healthy lifestyle choices. The victors particularly pointed out that lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and risky sexual behaviours, are major contributors to cancers such as throat and cervical cancer.
Hon. Wachira encouraged residents to prioritize early screening, noting that it not only saves lives but also reduces the overall burden of the disease. She also urged citizens to register with the new government healthcare scheme, the Social Health Authority (SHA), to ensure they continue receiving seamless medical care following the transition from the former NHIF system.
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The MCA highlighted the deployment of Community Health Promoters by the Nyeri County Government, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, to make health services more accessible at the household level. She encouraged residents to engage these promoters for any questions or concerns regarding cancer.
She also cautioned against self-diagnosis and the use of over-the-counter medications, stressing the importance of visiting health facilities to ensure early detection and treatment of illnesses.
Additionally, Hon. Wachira reminded attendees that girls aged 10-14 can receive the HPV vaccine, which protects against cervical cancer, at no cost in all Nyeri County health facilities. Women aged 25-49 were encouraged to undergo regular screenings, and men were urged to embrace early and routine screening for breast, throat, and testicular cancers. She noted that statistics show men are less likely to seek regular health check-ups, making awareness all the more important.
Through such efforts, the forum aims to increase awareness of the importance of early cancer screening and adopting healthy lifestyles, one step at a time.
By Rodgers Wagura
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