Story By Sherine Atieno, Photos by Ogega Ondari .                                                              Kisumu County has launched a crucial initiative to combat late-stage breast cancer diagnosis by offering free biopsy, histopathology, and hormonal receptor testing services to vulnerable women at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).
Late diagnosis remains a significant challenge in breast cancer treatment at JOOTRH, with many patients presenting with advanced stages III or IV. This often leads to limited treatment options and poor outcomes.
"High costs of diagnostic services are a major barrier for many women," said Dr. Albert Ng’ong'a, a General Surgery Resident at JOOTRH. "This delay in diagnosis allows the disease to progress, significantly impacting treatment success."
This new program, a collaboration between the County Government of Kisumu, Africa Cancer Foundation, and Tiba Foundation, aims to address this critical issue.
"By subsidizing these crucial tests, we can ensure timely diagnosis and early initiation of treatment for vulnerable women," said Dr. Ng'ong'a.
The project will involve:
• Free diagnostic services: Subsidized breast mass core biopsy, histopathology, and hormonal receptor testing will be offered to eligible patients.
• Community outreach: Awareness campaigns will be conducted to educate the public about breast cancer symptoms and the importance of early detection.
• Improved access: The project will facilitate timely access to diagnostic results by collaborating with secondary laboratories.
The project is currently underway and will run for the next three months, with the possibility of extension. Women with suspected breast cancer are encouraged to visit the JOOTRH oncology unit for evaluation.
This initiative represents a significant step towards reducing the burden of breast cancer in Kisumu County and improving the lives of affected women.
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