The Ministry of Health and NCCP, in partnership with WHO, have urged journalists to report accurately on cancer to combat misinformation and stigma. During a media forum, experts emphasized the media’s role in shaping public opinion and awareness. Call for collaboration and improved data access was made to enhance health reporting. Kenya is implementing initiatives like the Women’s Integrated Cancers project to improve cancer detection and care.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) and the World Health Organization (WHO), has emphasized the importance of accurate reporting on cancer in the media. This initiative aims to reduce misinformation and stigma related to cancer and ensure the public receives factual information.
During a media sensitization forum in Nairobi, Dr. Joan Bor, Head of NCCP, highlighted that the media significantly influences public opinion on cancer treatment and is vital in dispelling myths surrounding cervical and breast cancers. “As NCCP, we are deliberate on training the media to enhance cancer reporting, emphasizing the need for accuracy and responsibility,” stated Dr. Bor.
Dr. Bor encouraged media professionals to focus on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment advocacy to improve health outcomes. Ms. Benda Kithaka, founder of Kilele Health Association, echoed this sentiment, urging journalists to produce stories that inspire hope and reflect humanity. According to Kithaka, “The key role of the media in cancer prevention is to raise awareness and lead people to behavior change, thereby improving health outcomes.”
As part of the efforts to combat cancer, Kithaka proposed that media organizations invest in research and facilitate informed dialogues among media practitioners. Dr. Joyce Nato from WHO Kenya asserted that cervical cancer is curable if detected early, with routine screenings recommended for women aged 35 to 49. Dr. Nato stated, “WHO is committed to combating cervical cancer with its 90-70-90 targets.”
Journalists at the forum called for collaboration among the Ministry, medical professionals, and stakeholders to enhance their coverage of health issues. Journalist Tabitha Rotich noted the challenges faced in health reporting, including the lack of timely feedback from the Ministry and minimal data availability.
A report from the National Cancer Control Strategy indicates that Kenya grapples with a considerable cancer burden, reporting over 45,000 new cases and 29,000 deaths annually. Cervical cancer, the most prevalent malignancy among women, results in 3,591 fatalities each year, with nine women succumbing to cancer daily.
To address the cancer crisis, Kenya is executing a three-year Women’s Integrated Cancers (WICs) project under the NCCS and WHO-led initiative. This pilot program aims to enhance access to breast and cervical cancer detection, treatment, and care in Nyandarua and Bungoma counties, integrating these services within primary healthcare systems alongside non-communicable disease management.
In summary, accurate reporting on cancer is crucial for combating misinformation and stigma, as emphasized by the Ministry of Health, NCCP, and WHO. Journalists have a responsibility to report hope and truth, fostering awareness and behavioral changes necessary for improving cancer outcomes in Kenya. The collaborative efforts, including the Women’s Integrated Cancers project, aim to increase cancer detection and treatment access, ultimately reducing the cancer burden in the country.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
