Cancer is the third leading cause of death in Kenya and the second leading cause of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) after cardiovascular diseases, this is according to a 2022 report by The Ministry of Health.
The risk of developing cancer before the age of 75 years (%) in Kenya is 18% among women and 14.3% among men while the risk of dying from cancer by the same age is 12.7% in women compared with 10.3% in men.
The five most common cancers in Kenya for both sexes are breast, cervical, prostate, esophageal, and colorectal. In this article we cover the most common cancers in Kenya and around the world.
Lung cancer
Lung cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and it is usually caused by smoking. Exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and occupational hazards such as asbestos can also increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer worldwide, and it affects both men and women. Age, genetics, and family history are risk factors for breast cancer, and other factors that can increase the risk include early onset of menstruation, late onset of menopause, never having children, and the use of hormone replacement therapy.
Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer worldwide, and it is usually caused by a diet high in red and processed meats, low in fiber, and lacking in fruits and vegetables. Age, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle are also risk factors.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer worldwide, and age and family history are the primary risk factors. Other factors that may increase the risk include obesity, a diet high in animal fat, and exposure to certain chemicals.
Stomach cancer
Stomach cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer worldwide, and infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria is the primary cause. Other risk factors include a diet high in salt and smoked or pickled foods, smoking, and a family history of stomach cancer.
Esophageal cancer
Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It is usually caused by long-term acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Other risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and obesity.
Liver cancer
Liver cancer is the sixth most common type of cancer worldwide, and chronic infection with hepatitis B or C virus is the leading cause. Other risk factors include heavy alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to certain chemicals and toxins.
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. It is usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Other risk factors include smoking, a weakened immune system, and a family history of cervical cancer.
Skin cancer
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that affects the skin, and it is usually caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Fair skin, a history of sunburns, and a family history of skin cancer are also risk factors.
It’s important to note that many cases of cancer are preventable through lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, protecting yourself from harmful UV radiation, getting vaccinated against HPV, and getting regular cancer screenings. Additionally, early detection through regular cancer screenings can greatly increase the chances of successful treatment and survival. If you have any concerns about your risk of developing cancer, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to reduce your risk and get screened for cancer.
