On January 29, 2025, the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) launched a transformative one-year research project aimed at enhancing cervical cancer screening in rural Kenya. The initiative, revealed at an inception workshop held at the Golf Hotel, focuses on addressing critical barriers to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing and making cervical cancer screenings more accessible to women in underserved areas. This study represents a vital step in tackling the high cervical cancer burden, particularly in rural regions where access to healthcare facilities and screening programs is often limited.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Kenya, contributing to 12% of the national cancer burden. Alarmingly, the disease is often diagnosed too late, when treatment options are scarce, leading to high mortality rates. It is estimated that for every five women diagnosed with cervical cancer, three will succumb to the disease. Currently, only about 3.2% of Kenyan women undergo cervical cancer screening, highlighting the urgent need for effective intervention strategies.
The MMUST-led project seeks to address these challenges by developing a culturally sensitive approach that will encourage more women in rural areas to participate in HPV testing. The research will introduce self-sample collection kits that allow women to collect their own samples in the privacy of their homes, bypassing common barriers like stigma, lack of awareness, and limited access to healthcare centers. The study aims to create a model of screening that is both scientifically sound and culturally acceptable, working closely with local community leaders to ensure the approach aligns with the needs and values of the women it serves.
Funded by the National Cancer Institute of Kenya (NCI-K), the research will focus on women aged 25 to 49 years, a critical demographic for cervical cancer prevention. The study will also engage healthcare providers involved in the prevention and management of cervical cancer, gathering insights on potential obstacles to the adoption of self-collection kits and strategies to overcome these challenges. The goal is to design an approach to HPV testing and cervical cancer screening that is both practical and widely accepted in rural settings.
During the workshop, Kakamega County’s First Lady, Prof. Janet Kassily Barasa, voiced strong support for the project. “This study is critical to our efforts to create a healthier Kakamega,” Prof. Kassily said. “We believe that through this collaboration, we can address gaps in cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment, creating lasting impact for our communities.” Her comments highlighted the county’s commitment to improving healthcare and ensuring that women receive the support they need for early cancer detection.
MMUST Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, emphasized the significance of the project, noting, “This initiative aligns with our vision of improving the health and well-being of women in Kenya. By empowering women with the right knowledge, we can significantly improve early detection and treatment of cervical cancer.”
In his presentation, Prof. Peter Bukhala stressed the importance of community involvement throughout the study, ensuring that the research would not only serve academic purposes but also bring tangible benefits to the people of Kakamega. “We are committed to ensuring that the findings benefit everyone, from policymakers to local families,” he stated.
Dr. Gregory Sakwa, who presented an overview of the project, highlighted the research’s emphasis on breaking down cultural and logistical barriers to screening. “We want to give women the tools to take control of their health in a way that fits their cultural values and daily realities,” he explained. By combining academic expertise with local government support, the project aims to generate data that will inform future health policies and interventions for cancer treatment in the region.
Ultimately, the project is expected to pave the way for increased acceptance of HPV testing and higher participation in cervical cancer screening. This initiative is not only set to save lives in Kakamega County but also aims to create a replicable model that can be adapted to other regions across Africa. By focusing on accessibility, cultural relevance, and community involvement, MMUST hopes to reduce cervical cancer-related mortality and improve health outcomes for women across the continent.
