KARATINA UNIVERSITY HOSTS CANCER AWARENESS WEBINAR

The Directorate of Community Outreach at Karatina University organized a webinar on September 29, 2025, to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The informative session, themed around cancer awareness and prevention, brought together over 136 participants, including students, staff, Council members, and representatives from Rwanda.

The webinar was facilitated by Dr. Mukuhi Ng’ang’a, a Breast Surgical Oncologist from the Aga Khan University Hospital, who delivered an enlightening presentation on cancer awareness and demystification. Her discussion covered key aspects such as cancer statistics, causes, symptoms, and treatment options for common cancers including breast, cervical, prostate, esophageal, and colorectal cancers

Section of the participants during the webinar.

Dr. Ng’ang’a emphasized the importance of early screening and intervention, noting that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. She also dispelled common myths surrounding cancer—such as the misconception that cancer is contagious or caused by sugar—and highlighted the role of healthy lifestyle choices, including proper nutrition, regular physical exercise, and the avoidance of tobacco and excessive alcohol use. She concluded her presentation with a call for expanded community-based screening programs and increased research to better understand and combat the rising cancer burden in Kenya.

The session also featured moving personal testimonies that offered powerful real-life perspectives. Professor Linus Gitonga shared his journey with throat cancer, candidly reflecting on the challenges and lessons from his experience. He underscored the importance of regular medical check-ups and early detection, describing his recovery as a journey of resilience and hope rather than defeat.

Section of the participants during the webinar.

Adding a caregiver’s perspective, Dr. Jane Walker, a Counseling Psychologist, shared her experience supporting her mother through breast cancer treatment. She highlighted the crucial role caregivers play in providing emotional and psychological support to patients.

The webinar concluded with remarks from the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning, Finance and Administration, who appreciated the Vice Chancellor for his leadership and thanked all participants for their engagement. The session ended with a closing prayer by Father Mbai, dedicated to individuals and families affected by cancer.

Key outcomes and recommendations from the webinar included:

• Encouraging all participants to undergo cancer screening.
• Organizing the next webinar on self-care for caregivers and palliative care for terminally ill patients, as announced by Prof. Margaret Mwenje.
• Inviting community health promoters and Professor Muthuri to share further caregiver experiences.
• Urging healthcare workers to continue providing nutritional guidance to cancer patients, focusing on plant-based diets and natural products that support recovery

In conclusion, the Cancer Awareness Webinar was a remarkable success, achieving its goal of promoting cancer awareness, early detection, and caregiving support. Through expert insights and personal experiences, participants gained valuable knowledge on preventive healthcare and the importance of lifestyle modification in reducing cancer risks.

The Directorate of Community Outreach extends its heartfelt gratitude to the University Management for the support that made this impactful event possible.