How a backache led to a cervical cancer diagnosis

Marion Wangui's battle with cervical cancer began in 2023, after a persistent backache that she initially thought was a minor issue.

However, as the pain lingered, she realized something was seriously wrong.

“I didn’t think much of the back pain at first, but as it persisted, I knew something wasn’t right,” she recalls.

She went for medical tests, but was misdiagnosed several times before finally receiving the correct diagnosis of cervical cancer.

“It has been a tough journey,” Wangui shares. “The treatment was challenging, and losing my hair was hard. But as I reflected on it, I realized that hair could grow back, but a second chance at life wasn’t guaranteed.”

Her experience has inspired her to advocate for early cervical cancer screenings.

“I encourage every woman to get regular screenings, even if you have no symptoms. Early detection can save your life,” Wangui urges. “The sooner you catch it, the better your chances for treatment and recovery.”

As Nakuru joins the global community in observing Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, the focus is on spreading awareness, promoting screening, and offering crucial information on prevention.

Leading the effort, Nakuru Teaching and Referral Hospital has organized various activities to ensure that women are informed and empowered to take part in the campaign.

Dr Dulcie Wanda, a Clinical and Radiation Oncologist at Nakuru Teaching and Referral Hospital, emphasizes the significance of early detection and prevention.

“Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented through vaccination,” she explains, noting that the HPV vaccine is essential for girls aged 9 to 14.

“However, regular screening is still crucial for women, especially as they age.”

Dr Wanda also points out that cervical cancer is quickly becoming a major concern, with rates in Nakuru County rising to 15 percent, putting it on par with breast cancer.

This makes Nakuru the second-highest county in the country for cervical cancer diagnosis. Despite the statistics, Dr Wanda remains optimistic that widespread vaccination and regular screenings will reduce these numbers over time.

Since cervical cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages, Dr. Wanda stresses the importance of regular checkups, even if there are no apparent signs.

“Symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common ones include abnormal bleeding during intercourse, spotting between periods, unusual discharge, or lower abdominal or back pain,” she explains.

“As the disease advances, more severe symptoms such as persistent coughing, unexplained weight loss, stomach pain, or bloodshot eyes may appear, indicating the cancer has spread to other organs.”

This year’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, themed Prevent Today, Protect Tomorrow, aims to educate women of all ages and encourage them to undergo screening.

Nakuru County plans to implement a comprehensive screening program, which will also address other non-communicable diseases across all 11 sub-counties.

“Encourage the women in your life to get screened,” Dr Wanda advises. “Early detection is critical. Let’s all work together to fight against cancer and other non-communicable diseases.”

While some women may feel hesitant about traditional screening, Dr Wanda highlights the availability of self-testing, a quick and private option that allows women to test themselves in under 15 minutes.