NCI, Homa Bay county partner to conduct free cancer screening in villages

The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), in collaboration with Homa Bay county, has taken cancer care directly to the community through a free screening exercise held at Bondo SDA Church in Rangwe Sub-County on March 29, 2026.

The outreach targeted what experts call the “Triple Threat” of oncology; cervical, breast, and prostate cancers, bringing vital preventive and diagnostic services closer to residents who often face barriers in accessing specialised care.

During the exercise, more than 100 community members underwent various screenings.

Women received cervical cancer checks through Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) and HPV testing, alongside clinical breast examinations.

Men were offered prostate cancer screening through PSA testing. In addition, eligible girls were vaccinated against HPV, a key preventive measure against cervical cancer.

The initiative also integrated screening for non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, ensuring a holistic approach to community health.

Minor findings were treated on-site, while a structured referral pathway was established for cases requiring specialized follow-up.

NCI-K emphasised that the outreach was conducted with the same level of technical support, consumables, and quality assurance as services offered at national centres.

“We remain dedicated to scaling these efforts, ensuring that every Kenyan, regardless of geography, has a fighting chance through early detection and quality care as we gear towards a cancer-free nation,” the institute stated.

The event was graced by senior leadership from the Ministry of Health, led by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga, and NCI-K Chief Executive Officer Elias Melly.

Their presence underscored the government’s commitment to decentralizing cancer control and ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

Community members welcomed the initiative, noting that such outreach programs not only provide lifesaving services but also raise awareness and improve health literacy in rural areas.

The turnout reflected growing recognition of the importance of early detection in combating cancer, which remains a leading cause of mortality in Kenya.

The Rangwe outreach marks a significant step in bridging healthcare gaps and empowering communities with knowledge and access to preventive care.