Revealed: NCI-K Sounds Alarm on Five Deadliest Cancers in Kenya

NCI-K Chair Dr. Timothy Olweny

The National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K) has named breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, oesophageal cancer and colorectal cancer as the five leading types responsible for the majority of cancer-related deaths in the country.

Speaking on Wednesday, July 30, NCI-K Chair Dr. Timothy Olweny referred to the five as the “Big Five,” stating they account for over half of all new cancer cases reported annually. 

Dr. Olweny said the country records approximately 42,116 new cancer cases each year, with the Big Five making up 52% of these cases.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Kenya, with 6,799 to 7,243 new cases reported annually. 

Cervical cancer follows closely with 5,236 to 5,250 new cases per year and remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women.

Prostate cancer is the most common among men, with 2,800 to 3,412 new cases recorded annually. 

Health CS Aden Duale at the Garissa Regional Cancer Centre

Oesophageal cancer accounts for 3,000 to 4,300 new cases per year and is noted for its high fatality rates, especially in parts of Central and Western Kenya. 

Colorectal cancer, which affects both the colon and rectum, sees 1,354 to 1,900 new cases annually, with increasing incidence noted in recent years.

Dr. Olweny stated that breast and cervical cancers mainly affect women, while prostate cancer primarily affects men. Oesophageal and colorectal cancers affect both genders.

He said cancer is a major national health issue, with at least 27,092 cancer-related deaths recorded in Kenya since 2020. He noted that many cases are diagnosed late, contributing to high mortality rates.

Consequently, the NCI-K chair stressed the importance of prevention, early detection, timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and palliative care. He called for increased resource allocation to the National Cancer Institute to support its role in addressing the cancer burden.

Dr. Olweny also highlighted the broader impact of cancer, including psychological distress and financial strain on families, which often leads to debt and poverty.