A recent study commissioned by the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition highlights the significant toll ovarian cancer takes on Kenya’s economy and healthcare system. The disease, which is the country’s second-most common gynecologic cancer, affects approximately 3.8 out of every 100,000 women annually, accounting for 4% of all cancer cases.
The study, which assessed the socioeconomic impact of ovarian cancer in 11 countries, including Kenya, reveals that in 2023 alone, these countries faced an estimated USD 69.9 billion in losses due to the disease. Kenya, like other low- and middle-income nations, is particularly burdened by increased healthcare costs and a sharp decrease in productivity.
Globally, ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest forms of the disease, with more than 900,000 women diagnosed over the last five years. Approximately 70% of these cases are discovered in advanced stages, significantly lowering survival rates.
The study also emphasizes the broader economic impact of the illness, with women suffering from ovarian cancer losing an estimated 2.5 million workdays. In Kenya, this absenteeism not only affects the individuals battling the disease but also extends to caregivers, who dedicate an average of 33 days each to providing support, further straining their ability to contribute economically.
Healthcare systems across the globe are struggling to meet the rising costs of treating ovarian cancer, while loss of productivity exacerbates the economic strain. The World Ovarian Cancer Coalition’s findings urge governments and stakeholders to prioritize early detection and support systems to alleviate the socioeconomic burden of this devastating disease. With the burden of ovarian cancer continuing to rise, Kenya faces a critical challenge in addressing the healthcare and economic impacts on affected women and their families.
