As the breast cancer awareness month begins, residents of Kiambu County have been advised to be practicing cancer self-examination to help them detect any abnormalities in their bodies.
Speaking on Monday from at Kiambu Level Four Hospital, Dr David Kariuki a medical superintendent said cancer cases were rising among the youth and it was important for them to know how to self-examine themselves especially their breasts as most of them were scared of going to hospital to be screened.
He further explained that early detection of the disease meant a higher possibility of getting medical assistance and preventing it from developing complications and even causing death.
“Cancer is a very serious disease that can cause numerous complications and is very costly to treat. It does not discriminate between young and old hence the youth need to be aware and if they are scared of going to the hospital they can examine themselves from where they are,” Dr Kariuki said.
He advised the youth to check out any discharge and lumps in their breasts as they were the indicators, adding that one should use light, medium and firm pressure when examining, noting that one can perform the examination while lying down, in front of a mirror or in the shower.
He said breast cancer did not only affect women but men as well and urged them to seek medical attention if symptoms are noticed before the situation gets out of hand.
Dr Kariuki also cautioned the public against stigmatising persons living with the disease but should instead encourage them to be positive, saying it also boosts their esteem while under medication.