Story by: Makenah Kaburu
Photos by: Leaky Gitonga

Meru County Government, in partnership with The Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), has, rolled out yet another Free Cancer Screening Initiative for residents of Meru County.

During one such activity at the Muthara Sub-County hospital, the Head of Reproductive Services at MTRH, Mr. Daniel Kimaita, thanked the County Government for the Initiative, and went further to explain the need for frequent screenings to avoid late detection of any form of Cancer.

Muthara Sub County Hospital Superintendent and Sub-County Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Geoffrey Koome, urged residents to keep turning up for screenings in huge numbers for the hospital is well equipped with competent staff and the ability to screen for all types of Cancer, and that they offer such services all year round.

"We are partnering with The Meru County Government to bring closer to home, Free Cancer Screening Services, in order to provide sick residents a chance for early diagnosis, while allowing specialists advice people, on the frequency with which to get examined, and for what types of Cancers." Said Mr. Edwin Odoyo, Program Manager. Further, "Ampath, alongside Meru County Government, is keen on helping increase the cancer survival rate by ensuring that once an early detection is done, patients receive the best care possible at no cost on their end, and that we also give palliative care to those in need." Mr. Edwin, also pointed out common symptoms to look out for, for various types of cancers. Such as lumps for breast Cancer, excessive or unexplained bleeding and abnormal bleeding for cervical cancer. He also asked that people watch out for blood in the urine, as this may indicate cervical or prostate Cancer.

Residents, Ms. Kathambi o Kibaki and Mr. Linus M'Arithi, both thanked the Governor for the Initiative. Ms. Kathambi went on to thank the Health Workers for educating them on preventative measures and proper feeding habits.