Mount Kenya University (MKU) has taken a significant step toward improving cervical cancer screening in private healthcare facilities across Kenya. According to a recent survey conducted by MKU, approximately 68% of private facilities offer cervical cancer screening services, mainly using Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA). However, the study reveals several challenges hindering early detection and treatment, including staffing shortages, cultural barriers, lack of awareness, and financial constraints.
The study, which explored the availability and effectiveness of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing in private healthcare facilities, underscores the need for better infrastructure and a more robust human resource capacity to tackle the rising burden of cervical cancer in Kenya. HPV is the primary cause of 95% of cervical cancer cases, and its early detection can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. However, the study highlighted that despite the availability of screening services, several factors continue to limit the effectiveness of these services.
Challenges Facing Cervical Cancer Screening
One of the major obstacles identified is staffing shortages. The survey revealed that only 43% of the facilities had at least two staff members trained to provide screening, while the majority of hospitals had just one provider. This shortage of trained personnel compromises the quality and accessibility of services, particularly in rural areas.
The study also found that cultural factors played a significant role in the reluctance of women to undergo cervical cancer screening. In some communities, women avoid testing in facilities where male health practitioners are involved in the procedure. This cultural barrier is compounded by the discomfort and perceived invasiveness of the screening process. Many women expressed concerns about the pain and discomfort associated with the procedure, further deterring them from seeking early screening.
Moreover, financial constraints and the lack of awareness about available services contribute to delays in diagnosis and treatment. According to Dr. Jesse Gitaka, the principal investigator of the study and MKU’s Director of Research and Innovation, “Lack of knowledge on the availability of cervical cancer screening methods results in delays in care and treatment.”
Importance of HPV Testing
Dr. Gitaka explained that the study aimed to gather evidence on the viability of routine HPV testing in cervical cancer screening, particularly in private healthcare settings. HPV infection is typically sexually transmitted and can lead to invasive cervical cancer after 10-20 years of infection. Detecting HPV early through screening can lead to timely intervention and prevent the progression to cancer.
However, Dr. Gitaka pointed out that diagnosing cancer is only the first step; it must be followed by effective treatment to ensure that patients do not lose trust in the healthcare system. “Treatment can only follow diagnosis. If you diagnose and do not offer treatment, it will discourage others not to take up testing,” he said.
Role of Public-Private Partnerships
To address these challenges, experts emphasize the importance of strengthening collaborations between the public and private sectors. Brian Lishenga, Chairman of the Rural and Urban Private Hospitals Association (RUPHA), stressed that the private sector plays a critical role in Kenya’s healthcare system, contributing 58% of bed capacity and 45% of healthcare services. He advocated for greater private sector involvement in scaling up HPV screening to meet national health goals.
Lishenga highlighted that RUPHA’s 451 member facilities, which include a substantial proportion of the country’s level four and five hospitals, could significantly contribute to expanding cervical cancer screening services. This partnership between public and private healthcare providers is crucial in improving the reach and quality of services, particularly in under-served areas.
The Way Forward
Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Chief Research Scientist Prof. Matilu Mwau emphasized the need to expand testing facilities and enhance human resource capacity to meet the growing demand for cervical cancer screening. He suggested that smaller labs and point-of-care tests, such as rapid diagnostic tests, would be essential in ensuring that services are accessible and scalable across the country.
Meanwhile, at Thika Level 5 Hospital, nurse Martha Mburu shared an example of how proactive community outreach can bridge gaps in cervical cancer screening. In addition to offering screening at the hospital, Thika Level 5 has established an outreach program where healthcare workers visit women in their homes or businesses to encourage testing. Since the program’s launch, over 700 women have been screened for cervical cancer, with follow-up care provided for those in need of treatment.
Conclusion
As cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Kenya, improving early detection and treatment is crucial. MKU’s study highlights the need for comprehensive interventions that address both healthcare infrastructure and cultural barriers to screening. Through enhanced public-private collaborations and increased awareness and education, Kenya can take significant strides toward reducing the impact of cervical cancer and improving women’s health outcomes nationwide.
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