Women as young as 20 at risk of breast cancer

October is breast cancer awareness month.

The annual campaign intends to educate people about the importance of early screening and testing.

According to Dr. Nelly Bosire, an Obstetrician/gynaecologist, breast cancer does not only affect older women and it is the most common disease affecting women today.

“There is hereditary type of breast cancer and an individual is seven times more likely to get it compared to  somebody who doesn’t have a history of breast cancer in the family,” she told Citizen Digital.

Dr. Bosire also warned that women in their early 20s are being diagnosed with breast cancer and there is no such thing as being “too young” for screening.

She also noted that men are are also being diagnosed with the disease and should be screened for early detection as well.

Several hospitals across the country are offering free screening during the October Breast Cancer Awareness campaign.

The Nairobi Women’s Hospital

The hospital is offering free breast examination and discounted cancer screening tests on pap smear at Ksh.900.

Other tests include prostate specific antigen at Ksh.1,400, breast ultrasound bilateral at Ksh.5,000 and breast ultrasound unilateral from Ksh.3000,

Mater Hospital

Mater Hospital will hold a free breast  examination camp on Saturday October 6, 2018 from 8am to 2pm.

Other tests offered at reduced prices this month include mammogram, breast ultrasound and pap smear.

Cancer Awareness Center

The organisation holds its monthly cancer support group meeting for talks with nutrition experts and palliative doctors among others.

It is located at Tumaini House, Moi Avenue in Nairobi.

In October, they will also be distributing breast prosthesis and mastectomy bras.

We Celebrate this day by creating Awareness on Breast Cancer and Free Legal Aid targeting women in the informal settlement. pic.twitter.com/RDgZJfu9fs

— Langata Legal Aid Centre (@AidCentre) October 4, 2018