Why doctors urge Nakuru women over 40 to get mammograms annually

Health officials in Nakuru are raising concerns over the low uptake of breast cancer screening among women, especially those aged 40 and above, who are advised to undergo mammograms at least once a year.

According to the Radiographer-in-Charge and sonographer at the Nakuru County Referral and Teaching Hospital (PGH), Richard Kipkemoi Adomeyon, the facility records fewer than 50 women for screening each month, a figure he says is alarmingly low considering it is the only public hospital in the county with a mammogram machine.

“We are seeing very low numbers, less than 50 women per month, which is worrying given that early diagnosis saves lives,” says Adomeo.

“Women aged 40 and above should have at least one mammogram annually. For younger women, we recommend an ultrasound because their breast tissue is denser and may obscure lesions on a mammogram. By the age of 40, the breast tissue has less density, giving better contrast and allowing clearer detection of any abnormalities.”

Adomeyon explains mammography is a simple imaging test that uses low-dose X-rays to capture detailed images of the breast tissue, helping detect lumps, cysts, or abnormal growths that may not yet be visible or painful.

During the procedure, the breast is gently compressed between two plates to spread out the tissue for a clearer image, a process that takes less than ten minutes.

“It’s not painful, safe, and the radiation dose is very low — almost negligible. Modern digital machines are designed with radiation protection mechanisms, and the benefits far outweigh the risks,” he says.

He adds that the hospital’s mammogram unit is staffed with trained radiographers and sonographers, mostly female practitioners, to ensure comfort and privacy for patients.

The service is now fully covered under the Social Health Authority (SHA), with approvals taking less than an hour.

“We charge Sh. 1,100 for the procedure, which SHA now pays in full. Compared to private hospitals, a mammogram can cost up to Sh. 5,000, five times what we are charging. So, there is no reason why women should not take advantage of the service,” he notes.

Dr. Joy Mugambi, the County Director for Health Administration and Planning, says as the county marks the close of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the focus now shifts from awareness to action, encouraging more women to take advantage of available screening services and detect the disease early when it is most treatable.

“We have the services, but the mammogram machine has been with us for years and is still underused. When breast cancer is detected early, the chances of cure are almost 100 per cent,” says Dr. Joy.

Dr. Joy further points out that breast cancer risk increases with age, obesity, prolonged estrogen exposure, and family history of the disease.

“Women with a relative who has had breast cancer should come for screening even before 40. Screening is a simple, preventive act that can save your life. Let’s take advantage of the tools available to us,” she emphasizes.