Dr. Mukuhi Ng’ang’a, a Consultant Breast Surgical Oncologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, highlights that breast cancer is increasingly affecting younger women in sub-Saharan Africa, often at earlier ages than in Western countries. Early detection through self-familiarity and appropriate screening is crucial for improved outcomes, as late presentation remains a significant barrier to survival in the region.

• Early detection and prompt treatment are key for the high treatability of breast cancer, which is no longer solely a disease of the elderly.
• Dr. Mukuhi Ng’ang’a, Consultant Breast Surgical Oncologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, authored the article.
• Many women complete breast cancer treatment and later conceive, with fertility preservation options like freezing eggs or embryos increasingly available before treatment.

Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu, Kenya, has successfully performed its inaugural cardiothoracic surgery, marking a significant medical achievement for Western Kenya. The groundbreaking procedure, an esophagectomy for Stage II esophageal cancer, was performed on Christine Awino Onyango, who is now recovering well.

• The surgery was led by cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons Dr. Robert Sadia and Dr. Juma Odoro, who recently returned after specialized training.
• This achievement paves the way for JOOTRH's upcoming Heart Surgery Unit, set to serve millions across Western Kenya and neighboring regions.
• Esophageal cancer is the second most common cancer treated at JOOTRH, and Kenya records over 2,000 new cases annually.

The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) successfully performed a historic 11-hour surgery on September 22, removing 20.86kg of breast tissue from a 17-year-old girl named Lydia suffering from gigantomastia. This is believed to be the largest such removal globally, significantly improving the teenager's quality of life.

• The removed tissue constituted 37% of Lydia's total body weight.
• The surgery was led by Head of Specialised Surgery and Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Benjamin Wabwire, and involved a team of local and international experts.
• Lydia had lived with the condition for 18 months, causing significant physical and emotional distress, forcing her to leave school.