New machine to help fight skin cancer in Kajiado

 Persons with albinism in Kajiado no longer have to travel long distances for skin cancer treatment following the installation of a new treatment machine at the county referral hospital.

The machine uses a freezing method to destroy harmful skin cells before they can turn into cancer, making it easier to catch skin cancer early.

This is part of a nationwide effort to improve healthcare for persons with albinism.

The machine, known as a cryogenic machine, donated by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), helps treat skin conditions that could lead to cancer.

Eva Njoroge, acting NCPWD Executive Director said the initiative aims to reduce the high risk of skin cancer in persons with albinism, who are more vulnerable because of prolonged sun exposure.

“We are donating this equipment to help treat skin cancer. We are also carrying out similar activities in 20 other hospitals across the country, and it’s going to help reduce the burden of skin cancer among persons with albinism,” she said.

Other counties set to benefit from the programme include Kiambu, Muranga, Wajir and Trans Nzoia.

The treatment is quick, and safe and reduces the need for more serious procedures later.

Shuma Dibana, a dermatologist at Kajiado County Referral Hospital, explained that the machine works by freezing abnormal cells, causing them to form a blister that bursts and removes the harmful cells. This helps stop the cancer from developing.

Before the machine, many people with albinism in Kajiado had to go to private hospitals or travel far to receive treatment.

Now, they can access care closer to home, saving both time and money.

Besides medical treatment, NCPWD is urging persons with albinism to register with the council to benefit from other government services, like free sunscreen and education support.

“We are calling on all persons with albinism to register with us. This will help us reach them with services such as free sunscreen, education support, and economic empowerment programmes,” said Alex Munyere, head of the albinism unit at NCPWD.

The 20 cryogenic machines being distributed this year build on a similar initiative from 2017, when 30 machines were donated to hospitals across the country.

 However, some of the earlier machines had broken down and needed replacing.

Munyere said Kajiado, with its growing number of persons with albinism, was prioritised for this new round of donations.

NCPWD has promised to monitor and support the use of the machines to ensure they are effective.