There is growing concern over the mysterious rise in throat cancer cases in Kenya. Health experts are now paying close attention to the unusual pattern being reported in the northern region.
Wajir and Garissa counties have seen an increase in patients with throat cancer. Reports show this type of cancer is now the most common in those areas.
Doctors say many patients have never smoked or used alcohol. These are the usual causes linked to this form of cancer, but many local cases do not fit that pattern.
Health researchers believe there may be other factors causing the rise. Some have mentioned poor nutrition, delayed diagnosis and limited cancer services in remote counties.
In Wajir County Referral Hospital, throat cancer makes up nearly half of all cancer cases. Patients are often diagnosed late after suffering symptoms for years.
A study found that only a few people had ever been screened or tested for this disease. Most patients did not know about basic cancer tests like the barium swallow.
The Garissa Regional Cancer Centre is the only major facility for cancer care in the north. It was opened in 2022 but struggles to meet growing demand.
Clinicians also suspect miraa chewing, hot drinks and poor health habits may be linked to the rise. They say more research is needed to find the real cause.
Public health reports show throat cancer has the lowest survival rate in Kenya. This makes early diagnosis and treatment even more important.
Doctors say many people travel long distances to get help. This delays care and increases the suffering for those with advanced cancer.
The new studies also show that cancer awareness in the north is very low. This has made it hard for people to seek help early.
Experts have now called for better cancer care in rural counties. They want the government to improve testing, treatment and health education in these areas.
By Kenyans