At the Nyeri County Referral Hospital on Thursday, July 4, 2024, governor Mutahi Kahiga of Nyeri received an endoscopy machine valued at Sh4 million from Goal Smile, a non-governmental organisation with headquarters in Italy.
The device will significantly contribute to giving patients accurate results and aid in the diagnosis of cancers of the stomach, colon, and oesophagus.
Kahiga claimed that by making cancer screening and treatment services more easily accessible, the machine will significantly lower the cost of diagnosis and lessen citizens’ need on private facilities.
“We are excited because this machine will bring down the cost of diagnosis from Sh20,000 per session in private facilities to Sh2,500 per session at the County Referral Hospital.
He added, “It will also go a long way in helping us achieve Universal Health Coverage by ensuring our Nyeri populace is receiving affordable and good healthcare.”
Kahiga emphasised the need of early detection in the fight against cancer while also admitting the high rate of the disease in the county.
The highest cancer rates in the nation were found in the counties of Nyeri, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, and Embu, according to a Ministry of Health report.
Furthermore, the County Referral Hospital documented a minimum of 55 new instances of cancer per month, while the chemotherapy centre saw 600 cases in a single month.
He also encouraged locals to have an early cancer screening and to take advantage of the state-of-the-art screening apparatus.
The Governor reiterated that four physicians had received specialised training in the use of the designated equipment.
He then urged the public to unite in the fight against cancer by cooperating to increase awareness, encourage early identification, and provide support to those who are undergoing treatment.
