Surge in Uterine Cancer in Kenya: What’s Driving the Spike?

Surge in Uterine Cancer in Kenya:

A Growing Health Crisis: Why Uterine Cancer Is on the Rise in Kenya

In recent years Kenya has witnessed a concerning uptick in uterine cancer cases marking it as an emerging public health issue. Commonly known as endometrial cancer this disease affects the inner lining of the uterus and has long been associated with postmenopausal women. However, shifting lifestyle trends increasing obesity and hormonal imbalances are fueling an alarming increase in diagnoses with among younger Kenyan women.

This article explores the factors behind this increase what it means for Kenya’s healthcare system, and how timely awareness and screening could help avert a looming crisis.

Also Read: The Alarming Rise of Fake Dentists in Kenya

What Is Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer mainly endometrial carcinoma begins in the lining of the uterus and is one of the most common gynecological cancers universal. Symptoms may contain:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (particularly post-menopause)
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Unusual vaginal discharge

In Kenya late diagnosis remains a main challenge through many women presenting symptoms only in advanced stages.

The Data: What Do the Numbers Say?

According to the Kenyan Ministry of Health Cancer Registry 2024 the incidence of uterine cancer has additional than doubled over the last decade through urban counties like Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu recording the sharpest spikes.

In Nairobi alone, cases rose by 63% among 2014 and 2024, through younger women (35–50 years) accounting for nearly a third of diagnoses. MOH Kenya Cancer Statistics, 2025

Why Are Uterine Cancer Cases Increasing in Kenya?

1. Lifestyle-Related Factors

Urbanization has brought dramatic changes to diet and activity levels:

• Increased consumption of processed foods
• Physical inactivity due to sedentary jobs
• Higher obesity rates, specially between urban women

Obesity is a well-documented risk factor because it increases estrogen production, a hormone strongly linked to endometrial cancer.

2. Hormonal Imbalances

• Increasing use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Early onset of menstruation and delayed menopause
• Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

These factors contribute to prolonged estrogen exposure, a key trigger for uterine cancer development.

3. Delayed Screening & Diagnosis

Despite developments, cancer screening programs in Kenya remain limited in scope and reach:

• Lack of regular gynecological check-ups
• Poor access to pathology and diagnostic labs, specially outside major cities
• Low awareness about early signs of uterine cancer

4. Improved Cancer Registry and Diagnostics

However the numbers have increased, part of the increase may be attributed to:

• Enhanced cancer surveillance systems
• Better diagnostic imaging and pathology services
• More trained oncologists and gynecologic specialists, especially in cities like Eldoret and Nakuru

Community Health Response: Are We Doing Enough?

The increasing trend calls for a multi-faceted response aligned through the Kenya Cancer Policy 2025, including:

Nationwide Awareness Campaigns

• Promote uterine cancer symptoms via radio, TV, and social media
• Leverage community health workers to educate rural women

Expanded Screening Programs

• Deploy mobile cancer screening units to underserved regions like Western Kenya and Rift Valley
• Integrate uterine cancer checks into maternal health visits

Strengthening Healthcare Capacity

• Train further gynecologic oncologists
• Equip county referral hospitals with diagnostic tools
• Subsidize treatment through the NHIF Cancer Fund

FAQs About Uterine Cancer in Kenya