NGPU November 15, 2024

Nakuru County partners with KUTRRH for in-depth Research to address Esophageal Cancer

Written by James Munyua

Nakuru County has signed a collaborative agreement with Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) to commence research studies on Oesophageal Cancer spread in the County, its causes, and how to improve EC survival rates through early detection of the disease.

Nakuru is among the five Counties selected for the research on account of the high prevalence of Esophageal cancer, and having sufficient resources and infrastructure to participate in this program. Other Counties are Kisii, Meru, Garissa and Nyeri.

Deputy Governor H.E David Kones who signed the agreement on behalf of Governor Susan Kihika has assured the delegation from the KUTRRH led by Dr. Marion Kiguoya, Deputy Director of Research and Clinical Trials of the County’s commitment to supporting the project implementation.

“We are happy to sign this partnership with Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital a leading Healthcare institution in the Country for the research of one of the deadliest forms of cancer in Kenya. We will give you all the support you need as you implement this project,” the Deputy Governor noted.

On her part, Dr Marion Kiguoya acknowledged Nakuru County’s commitment to engaging in this exercise, which will help to create awareness of oesophageal cancer and how to promote early detection and survival rates among the victims.

The County will also benefit from training opportunities for the healthcare workers engaged in this exercise.

This project is a partnership between The University of Manchester, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, and Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) aimed at raising awareness of the cancer of the oesophagus in Kenya. The exercise will also increase engagement in public screening opportunities.

The knowledge acquired will be used to develop targeted prevention programs and enhance early detection methods. Furthermore, the research will also lead to advancements in treatment options, offering hope to those affected by this disease.

Kenya belongs to a high-incidence region known as Africa’s oesophagal cancer (EC) corridor and has one of the highest incidence rates of the disease in the continent.

Also present at the event were the County Executive for Health Services Roselyn Mungai, County Director for Medical Services Dr. Daniel Wainaina and
Director Admin and Planning, Dr.Joy Mugambi.