Cancer patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) have not received radiotherapy treatment for two weeks. This follows the sudden breakdown of the hospital’s LINAC Elekta machine, a key device used in cancer treatment.
Dr. William Sigilai, the hospital’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, confirmed that the LINAC machine is currently out of service. However, he assured the public that the hospital has taken quick action to reduce disruptions in cancer care.
“We understand how important it is to keep oncology services running without interruption. We have activated referral procedures to ensure patients continue to get care,” Dr. Sigilai said, as reported by Citizen TV.
KNH also reported that its Cobalt radiotherapy machine, which had earlier broken down, has now been fixed and is working again.
To fill the gap caused by the LINAC machine failure, Dr. Sigilai said the hospital is speeding up the purchase of a new machine. “The procurement of a new LINAC machine has been fast-tracked through the proper tendering process. It is now at an advanced stage,” he added.
He emphasized the hospital’s commitment to providing high-quality and compassionate care. He thanked patients and other stakeholders for their patience and said the hospital will keep the public informed on progress.
In related news, the Ministry of Health recently revealed that Kenya loses nine women every day to cervical cancer. The disease causes more than 3,000 deaths in the country annually.
Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide.
The Ministry also reported that Kenya records about 5,226 new cases of cervical cancer each year.
Globally, cancer causes around 10 million deaths annually. This underlines the urgent need for better prevention, early detection, and treatment.
