Kenya Cancer Policy 2019-2030

Abstract

Globally, the cancer burden is rising, exerting significant strain on populations and health systems at all levels of income. There are concerted efforts towards enhancing access to comprehensive cancer prevention and control initiatives. The United Nations ‘Agenda for Sustainable Development calls for a reduction by one-third of premature mortality from Non-Communicable Diseases, including cancer. The Ministry of Health is committed to putting in place legislative, policy mechanism to achieve the progressive realization of the highest attainable standards of health as stipulated by the Constitution of Kenya 2010, under Article 43 (1)(a)The Kenya Health Policy 2014-2030 articulates the health sector's commitment under the government's stewardship to ensure attainment of the highest possible standards of health in a manner responsive to the population health needs. In Kenya, cancer is the 3rd leading cause of death after infectious and cardiovascular diseases. The condition exerts a heavy socioeconomic burden on individuals, households and entire communities through loss of productivity, cost of care and premature deaths. Cancer prevention and control requires a health-systems approach spanning the entire continuum of care. This includes prevention, early detection, treatment, palliative care, survivorship, monitoring, evaluation and research. Cancer control in Kenya is however hampered by inadequate cancer diagnosis and management infrastructure, limited specialized human resource capacity, late presentation and diagnosis as well as low awareness on cancer prevention and control in the population. In order to address these issues, a coordinated approach is key. The Kenya Cancer Policy 2019-2030 provides for a framework to comprehensively address cancer control in Kenya through the systematic implementation of evidence-based interventions for prevention, screening, timely diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and palliative care, financing, monitoring, and research. It is meant to guide all stakeholders in cancer control in Kenya, including government ministries, departments and agencies, county governments, faith-based organizations, private sector players, patient groups, civil society organizations and development partners, among others, towards a coordinated response. The development of this policy was anchored on key guiding principles which include multi-sectoral approach, stakeholder ownership, client-centered approach, quality care, evidence-based KENYA CANCER POLICY 2019-2030 v orientations, equity and universal coverage, accountability, rights-based approach and use of technology. It is further envisaged that this policy will contribute to equitable and accessible cancer prevention and control services in line with the health sector's commitment to the attainment of Universal Health Coverage in Kenya. The development of this policy was through a participatory process by all stakeholders and it is my belief that we will synergize all our efforts towards implementation and monitoring of the policy objectives articulated herein. Let us all join hands in halting and reversing the burden of cancer in Kenya...