Miriam Kanyugo
University of Africa Nazarene school of Humanities, Kenya
Title: THE ROLE OF MEDIA IN CANCER CARE AND MANAGEMENT IN KENYA
Biography
Biography: Miriam Kanyugo
Abstract
Cancer is the 3rd highest cause of morbidity with 7% of deaths per year in Kenya. Estimated 39,000 new cases of Cancer each year with more than 27,000 deaths per year. 60% of Kenyans affected by Cancer are younger than 70 years old, a population (60%) age bracket that is generally active in matters of development. Mass media is an important social institution in any modern society therefore using its prowess in educating masses as well as in deciphering taboos and myths associated with the disease to the public eventually will result to achieving the goal of reducing cancer mortality and morbidity.
More emphasis and time has been given though to reporting on other issues affecting the public giving meagre time to health reporting. However, in working towards eradicating cancer, media should be on the fore front in awareness creation as well as in educating masses on prevention, treatment and management of the disease.