Description
Authors
Lilian A. Genga,
Background:
Women in Kenya face a growing burden of NCDs, particularly cervical and breast cancers, often diagnosed late due to limited awareness and access to screening. CHPs play a critical role in primary healthcare delivery, yet they are underutilized in integrated cancer and NCD prevention and management. Strengthening their capacity offers a scalable solution for early detection and integration of NCD services at the community level.
Methodology:
A systematic revision of the national CHP training curriculum was undertaken to incorporate core competencies on women's cancers and NCDs, including prevention, early detection, risk factor identification, and patient education. The revised curriculum emphasized practical, community-centered approaches and gender-sensitive communication. Training modules included breast and cervical cancer screening techniques, lifestyle counseling for hypertension and diabetes, and use of data tools for data collection and referrals. CHPs were trained in both classroom and field settings and provided with toolkits including visual aids, screening checklists, referral forms, and digital reporting tools to support service integration.
Discussion:
Empowering CHPs with updated knowledge, practical skills, and tools significantly enhanced their ability to integrate women's cancer and NCD prevention into routine community health services. Early results showed improved awareness, increased uptake of screening services, and more timely referrals to primary health facilities. Challenges included resource limitations, supervision gaps, and the need for continuous mentorship. Intersectoral collaboration and policy support were critical for sustainability and scale-up.
Conclusion:
Integrating women's cancers and NCDs into CHP services through curriculum revision and targeted training is a feasible and effective strategy to bridge health system gaps. Strengthening frontline health workers enhances community-level prevention and early detection efforts, contributing to the reduction of premature mortality among women in Bungoma and Nyandarua counties. Lessons learned will inform policy changes towards integrated services.
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Government of Kenya |
| Position | Nurse Program Officer |
| Received a Grant? | No |
