Old Mutual Health, the health insurance arm of leading financial services provider Old Mutual Group, and Cerba Lancet Kenya, a prominent healthcare diagnostics company, have today introduced a self-collection HPV DNA kit aimed at boosting cervical cancer screening rates in Kenya.
Cervical cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Kenya, is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is sexually transmitted. Statistics reveal that HPV accounts for 99.7% of all cervical cancers, emphasising the urgent need for effective screening methods.
Aligned with national cancer screening guidelines, which advocate for HPV-DNA detection as the primary screening method for cervical cancer in women aged 30 years and above, the self-collection kit will enable women to conveniently collect samples on their own, eliminating barriers to testing and empowering them to prioritise their health.
Speaking during the partnership announcement ceremony, Ken Omami – General Manager Old Mutual Health expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact on public health through the partnership.
“We are proud to collaborate with Cerba Lancet Kenya to introduce this innovative solution that addresses a critical healthcare need in Kenya. By promoting early detection and improving accessibility to screening services, we aim to mitigate the burden of cervical cancer and contribute to better health outcomes for women across the country. This partnership underscores our commitment to always putting our customers’ well-being at the forefront, and we look forward to its success in turning around the rising cancer cases in the country”.
“Old Mutual Health customers can access the self-collection HPV DNA kits at Cerba Lancet laboratories across Kenya. Moreover, the cost of the kits is covered under their outpatient benefit, ensuring that women can undergo screening without financial constraints. This aligns seamlessly with the theme of inclusion for Women’s Month 2024, as it promotes equal access to essential healthcare services for all women, regardless of their financial circumstances.”
Cerba Lancet Kenya’s CEO and Group Managing Director East Africa Ms Mwende Musunga added: “We are advancing healthcare solutions that make a tangible difference in people’s lives. By offering self-collection HPV DNA kits, we empower women to proactively manage their health and take proactive steps towards managing cervical cancer.”
The kits are now readily available at Cerba Lancet Kenya in over 28 branches countrywide.
