Nairobi City County is offering free cancer screening services to residents throughout October at the Nairobi County Cancer Centre, located at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital.
The initiative aims to improve access to screening and specialised cancer care by reducing financial barriers that can prevent people from seeking medical attention.
The centre is part of the county's efforts to strengthen public healthcare services by bringing cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment closer to residents who might otherwise struggle to access or afford specialised care.
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Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital Chief Executive Officer Dr Fredrick Obwanda said the establishment of the centre marked a significant step towards expanding access to cancer services within the public healthcare system.
“The establishment of the Nairobi County Cancer Centre is a major milestone in our efforts to bring specialised cancer services closer to the people. We want residents to access screening, diagnosis and appropriate care within a public healthcare system without unnecessary barriers,” Obwanda said.
He noted that the cost of cancer diagnosis and treatment remained a major challenge for many families, making accessible screening services important in encouraging people to seek medical attention before the disease advances.
The month-long initiative, running from October 1 to October 31, is designed to encourage residents to seek screening, receive professional medical guidance and make informed decisions about their health.
Health experts emphasise the importance of early detection because identifying cancer at an earlier stage can improve treatment options and outcomes.
However, delayed diagnosis remains a challenge, often resulting in more complex treatment needs and greater financial and emotional pressure on patients and their families.
Obwanda urged Nairobi residents to take advantage of the campaign, saying routine health checks can help identify potential health concerns early.
“We encourage all Nairobi residents to take advantage of this opportunity and make screening part of their regular health routine. Early detection can make a significant difference in the management of cancer, and our goal is to ensure that more people come forward for screening and receive professional medical advice,” he said.
By making screening services available at no cost during the campaign, the county aims to reduce financial barriers and encourage preventive healthcare and regular medical check-ups.
The initiative also highlights the importance of investing in public health facilities that support prevention, early diagnosis and timely intervention, rather than focusing solely on treatment after illness has progressed.
Residents are encouraged to contact Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital or the Nairobi County Cancer Centre to confirm available screening services, operating hours and any requirements before visiting.
With the campaign scheduled to run until October 31, residents are being encouraged to make use of the opportunity while it remains available.
