Kenya is facing a growing public health challenge as Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, cancer and mental health disorders continue to rise across the country.
Currently, NCDs account for more than a third of all deaths in the country, placing significant pressure on the healthcare system and affecting people during their most productive years. Health experts say hypertension remains one of the most widespread conditions, often going undetected until it leads to complications such as stroke, heart disease and kidney failure.
Mental health conditions are also increasingly being recognized as a major concern.
Head division of NCDs, Nairobi city county, Dr Victor Kibe says, the trend became more glaring, particularly following the social and economic pressures experienced in recent years during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
‘‘The government and health partners are strengthening prevention, screening and treatment services nationwide. Also, the country has adopted the National Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases, which outlines efforts to reduce NCD-related deaths through improved prevention, early diagnosis and integrated care.’’ He said.
Cancer is another growing challenge. Data from the National Cancer Institute of Kenya shows that the country records over 44,000 new cancer cases each year, with thousands of deaths annually, largely due to late diagnosis and limited access to treatment in some regions.
Through the Ministry of Health Kenya, authorities have expanded community-based screening programmes for conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. These screenings are increasingly being offered in primary healthcare facilities and community outreach programmes to improve early detection.
According to him, one of the key innovations supporting these efforts is the Empower digital platform, a collaborative initiative involving Roche, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya and county governments.
‘‘The platform helps track screening and diagnosis data in real time, enabling the health officials to better monitor patients and plan targeted interventions.’’
Mental health services are also receiving increased attention. Government he said is working to integrate mental health care into primary healthcare, allowing more people to access counselling and treatment services closer to their communities. Public awareness campaigns are being rolled out to reduce stigma around mental illness and encourage individuals to seek help earlier.
Health officials stress that preventive measures remain the most effective way to reduce the NCD burden.
By Sarah Apenkroh
