Ateker TV 
This year’s theme, “Close the Treatment Gap,” celebrated every 4th of February, is all about recognizing progress in its various forms that enable more cancer patients and caregivers to seek and get the care they need.
Mrs. Lillian Ekamais, Turkana County’s First Lady, led the county in commemorating the #WorldCancerDay with the rest of the globe to raise cancer awareness.
Speaking during the ceremony, the County’s First Lady Lilian Ekamais emphasized the need of spreading cancer awareness throughout the County.
Present also was the County Chief Officer of Preventive and Promotive Health Peter Lomorukia who stated that cancer is a fatal disease, but there is assistance and treatments available.
“Cancer screening can be conducted in all healthcare facilities and those diagnosed with cancer can get the treatment early,” he said.
He also added that the county government facilitated referrals for cancer patients to facilities in Eldoret and beyond as part of their management.
“The HPV [Human papillomavirus] vaccine is safe and now it is a government directive that all girls, aged 10 to 14 years, should be vaccinated to safeguard their lives,” he said.
According to Dr. Bonventure Ameyo, Director of Preventive and Promotive Services, promoting cancer awareness is crucial because 80% of cancer cases are diagnosed too late for treatment to be effective.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings