Saving Lives Through Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Kenya. However, thousands of lives are saved through early screening, vaccination, and timely treatment.

Through our Fahari ya Jamii (FYJ) project, supported by the U.S. Government (USG), thousands of Kenyan women now have access to life-saving cervical cancer screening, treatment, and preventive care. This investment in women's health is creating new opportunities for better healthcare experiences, ensuring a healthier future for all.

Naum’s Story

Naum walks in with a bright smile that lights up the room. “I was so anxious as I was coming,” she jokes as she takes a seat.  She shares a laugh, mentioning that her eldest child might even be my age. “Mimi ni mama mkubwa,”(I am an old lady) she quips, after I compliment her cute pink dress. But behind her laughter lies a story of resilience, survival, and second chances.

For Naum, a 43-year-old widow and mother of five living in Mukuru wa Njenga, cervical cancer was something she had heard about but never considered a personal risk. Raising her children on her own meant her priority was putting food on the table and not scheduling medical check-ups.

Overcoming Fear

Naum had always been aware of the importance of screening through radio programs, community health workers, and during her routine clinic visits, but she dismissed it as unnecessary. “I believed it was something that happened to other people, not me. I already had enough to deal with,” she recalls.

“I thought it was a waste of time,” she admits. “I just wanted to finish my clinic visit quickly and get out so I could go drink alcohol. I loved alcohol so much.”

It was during a routine clinic visit in November 2024 that a nurse took the time to explain the risks, especially for women living with HIV, as their immune systems make them more susceptible to infections, including HPV, the virus that causes cervical cancer. “For the first time, I felt a great sense of urgency and agreed to get screened,” Naum shares.

During the screening, precancerous lesions were detected on her cervix. It was a moment that shook her to the core. “I was in shock. I had no symptoms, nothing that told me something was wrong,” she says.

That decision saved her life, and thanks to UoN- Fahari ya Jamii’s support, she underwent thermal ablation. This procedure employs a heated probe tip on the cervix to eliminate precancerous cells. While it may seem painful, it usually results in minimal discomfort. The heat burns off abnormal tissue, allowing healthy cells to grow back in its place. The entire process takes only a few minutes and doesn’t require surgery.

“I was nervous at first, but the nurse assured me it was quick and simple,” Naum says.

A few weeks later in December 2024, Naum received a call from the clinic. Her biopsy results showed that some abnormal cells remained. She was faced with a difficult decision, to undergo another treatment to remove the remaining cells or opt for a hysterectomy, the removal of her uterus. After careful consideration, she chose the hysterectomy. “I wanted peace of mind,” she says. “I already had five children, and my biggest priority was being alive for them and seeing them grow.”

Naum's biggest worry was about how she would afford the procedure, but thankfully, government medical insurance covered the cost and in February 2025, she underwent surgery.

“At first, I didn’t have the strength to tell my kids about it. But when I had to undergo the operation, I had no choice,” she says. “They were so supportive. My eldest, who is 26 years old, took care of the youngest, who is just five years old.”

Despite the financial struggles, she is grateful for her family. “Even though we don’t have much, their love and support give me the strength to keep going.”

Advocating for Women’s Health

Naum now encourages all women to take charge of their health. “Go for HIV testing to know your status. Get cervical cancer screening because if caught early, it can be treated, and you can avoid misfortune.” She acknowledges the discomfort of the procedure but insists it is worth it. “It’s slightly uncomfortable, but it is painless, and it saves your life.”

Naum also carries a painful lesson that not adhering to her HIV treatment led to the transmission of the virus to her child. “I regret it deeply,” she says. “If I could go back, I would have taken better care of myself. That’s why I just wish to encourage women living with HIV to be consistent with their medication and regular check-ups.”
Naum’s story is one of many among the women UoN- Fahari ya Jamii has supported in Nairobi and Kajiado counties to prevent cervical cancer.

Impact of UoN- Fahari ya Jamii

Naum’s story is proof that early detection saves lives. Cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when caught early. All women, especially those living with HIV, should be screened at least every three years.

Here’s how you can take action

• Get screened at your nearest health facility.
• Encourage other women to go for screening.
• Ensure young girls receive the HPV vaccine.

Don’t wait. Get screened today because every woman deserves a future free from cervical cancer.

Our Fahari ya Jamii project , continues to make significant strides in expanding access to critical healthcare services for Kenyan women. Through this initiative, women like Naum have been screened, treated, and empowered with the knowledge and resources to take charge of their health. We extend our gratitude to USG for sponsoring the FYJ project and enabling Kenyan citizens to experience transformative healthcare opportunities.