Africa

Top 5 Cancer Hospitals in Kenya

12 February 2025

Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and Kenya is no exception. Over the years, the country has made significant progress in cancer care, establishing hospitals that provide specialized diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care. While challenges remain, these hospitals play a crucial role in offering hope and quality care to patients. This article highlights the top cancer hospitals in Kenya, their specialties, and the advancements in oncology services.

1. HCG CCK Cancer Centre

Location: Parklands, Nairobi
Specialty: Comprehensive cancer treatment including prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.

HCG CCK Cancer Centre is one of the leading oncology centers in Kenya, providing world-class cancer treatment. The hospital is part of the HealthCare Global Enterprises (HCG) network, known for its excellence in cancer care. It offers multidisciplinary cancer treatment, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, and radiation therapy. Patients benefit from personalized treatment plans, cutting-edge technology, and a patient-centric approach that ensures quality care.

2. Aga Khan University Hospital

Location: 3rd Parklands Avenue, Nairobi
Specialty: Multidisciplinary team for breast and other cancers with advanced diagnostic tools.

Aga Khan University Hospital is a premier medical institution in Kenya that offers comprehensive cancer care. Its oncology department is well-equipped with advanced diagnostic tools such as PET-CT scans, MRI, and digital mammography. The hospital specializes in breast cancer treatment, providing a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Additionally, it has an excellent team of oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists working together to deliver quality care.

3. MP Shah Hospital

Location: Parklands, Nairobi
Specialty: State-of-the-art diagnostic tools for breast cancer detection and treatment options like oncoplastic surgery.

MP Shah Hospital is known for its advanced oncology department, which focuses on breast cancer, prostate cancer, and other malignancies. The hospital offers early cancer detection services and uses innovative treatment approaches such as oncoplastic surgery, a technique that combines cancer removal with reconstructive surgery to improve cosmetic outcomes. It also provides chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy to enhance patient survival rates.

4. Nairobi West Hospital (TNWH)

Location: Gandhi Ave, Nairobi
Specialty: Equipped with advanced radiotherapy units and offers holistic oncology services including psychological support.

The Nairobi West Hospital is another leading institution in Kenya that provides holistic cancer care. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art radiotherapy machines, including linear accelerators, which ensure precision in cancer treatment. Besides offering chemotherapy and surgical oncology, the hospital has a dedicated psycho-oncology department that provides counseling and emotional support to cancer patients and their families.

5. Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH)

Location: Nairobi
Specialty: Largest public referral hospital offering affordable cancer treatment, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

Kenyatta National Hospital is the largest public referral hospital in Kenya and serves as a critical cancer treatment center. KNH houses the National Cancer Control Program, which aims to improve cancer care accessibility. The hospital provides chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical oncology at subsidized costs, making it a preferred option for low-income patients. Additionally, KNH has been working to enhance its oncology services through partnerships with international cancer research institutions.

The State of Cancer Care in Kenya

Cancer remains a significant public health concern in Kenya, with breast, cervical, and prostate cancers being the most common. The country faces several challenges in cancer management, including:

Late Diagnosis: Many patients seek medical attention when the disease is already at an advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment.
Limited Access to Radiotherapy: Although radiotherapy is a crucial component of cancer treatment, few hospitals in Kenya are equipped with modern radiotherapy machines.
Financial Barriers: The cost of cancer treatment is high, and many patients struggle to afford chemotherapy, surgery, and palliative care.
Shortage of Oncology Specialists: Kenya has a limited number of trained oncologists, making it difficult for patients to receive timely treatment.

Addressing the Gaps in Cancer Care

To improve cancer treatment in Kenya, several measures need to be implemented:

Investment in Oncology Infrastructure: The government and private sector should invest in establishing more specialized cancer centers to ensure equitable access to care.
Early Screening and Awareness Programs: Encouraging regular cancer screening can help detect the disease early, improving treatment outcomes.
Training More Oncology Professionals: Expanding oncology education programs will help increase the number of specialists in the country.
Expanding National Health Insurance Coverage: Subsidizing cancer treatment through NHIF and other insurance programs can make care more affordable for patients.

Looking Ahead

The future of cancer care in Kenya looks promising, with ongoing initiatives aimed at improving access to quality treatment. The government has been working to establish more regional cancer centers to reduce the burden on Nairobi-based hospitals. Additionally, technological advancements and international collaborations are expected to enhance cancer diagnosis and treatment in the country.

While Kenya has made significant strides in oncology care, there is still a long way to go. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, increasing public awareness, and investing in cancer research will be key to reducing cancer-related mortality and improving patient outcomes.

For now, the top hospitals mentioned above remain the best options for cancer patients in Kenya, providing hope and advanced treatment options for those battling the disease.