Childhood cancer awareness program in Bungoma County, Kenya

Abstract

Background Awareness could play a key role in reducing underdiagnosis and accelerating referral of childhood cancer in low- and middle-income countries and ultimately improve outcomes. This study describes the implementation of a child- hood cancer awareness program in Bungoma County in Kenya, containing five components: (1) baseline data collection of primary healthcare facilities; (2) live training session for healthcare providers (HCP); (3) early warning signs posters; (4) online SMS course for HCP; and (5) radio campaign. Methods This study was conducted between January and June 2023. All 144 primary healthcare facilities (level 2 and 3 health facilities) within Bungoma County were visited by the field team. Results All 125 level 2 (87%) and 19 level 3 (13%) facilities participated in the study. National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) failed to cover services in 37 (26%) facilities. HCP were more often reported absent at level 3 (89%) than level 2 (64%) facilities (P = 0.034). The 144 live training sessions were attended by over 2000 HCP. Distribution of 144 early warn- ing signs posters resulted in 50 phone calls about suspected childhood cancer cases. Sixteen children were later confirmed with childhood cancer and treated. Online SMS learning was completed by 890 HCP. Knowledge mean scores improved between pre-test (7.1) and post-test (8.1; P < 0.001). Finally, 540 radio messages about childhood cancer and a live question- and-answer session were broadcasted. Conclusion This study described the implementation of a childhood cancer awareness program in Kenya involving both HCP and the general public. The program improved HCP’s knowledge and increased the number of referrals for children with cancer.