Boost for cervical cancer prevention as Cerba Lancet Kenya, Old Mutual introduce self-collection kit

Source: Capital FM Kenya
Author: Amukohe Yvonne

NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 20 - Old Mutual Health, the health insurance arm of the Old Mutual Group, and Cerba Lancet Kenya, a healthcare diagnostics company, have introduced a self-collection HPV DNA kit aimed at boosting cervical cancer screening rates in Kenya.

Cervical cancer, which is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Kenya, is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is sexually transmitted.

Statistics reveal that HPV accounts for 99.7 percent of all cervical cancers, emphasizing the urgent need for effective screening methods.

The self-collection kit aligns with national cancer screening guidelines, recommending HPV-DNA detection as the primary screening method for cervical cancer in women aged 30 and above.

This kit allows women to collect samples independently, removing barriers to testing and empowering them to prioritize their health.

During the partnership announcement ceremony, Ken Omami, General Manager of Old Mutual Health, noted that the partnership aims to promote early detection and enhance accessibility to screening services for cervical cancer, with the goal of reducing its burden and improving health outcomes for women nationwide.

"Old Mutual Health customers can access the self-collection HPV DNA kits at Cerba Lancet laboratories across Kenya. Moreover, the cost of the kits is covered under their outpatient benefit, ensuring that women can undergo screening without financial constraints," Omami said.

"This aligns seamlessly with the theme of inclusion for Women's Month 2024, as it promotes equal access to essential healthcare services for all women, regardless of their financial circumstances."

The kits are now readily available at Cerba Lancet Kenya in over 28 branches countrywide.

"We are advancing healthcare solutions that make a tangible difference in people's lives," Cerba Lancet Kenya's CEO and Group Managing Director East Africa Mwende Musunga said.

"By offering self-collection HPV DNA kits, we empower women to proactively manage their health and take proactive steps towards managing cervical cancer."