Early Screening Saves Lives: Rose Atieno’s Story

When Rose Atieno Odhiambo visited Bungoma County Referral Hospital for a routine clinic appointment, she did not anticipate that the visit would be life changing.

In January 2019, after counseling by a healthcare provider, Rose consented to undergo cervical cancer screening. The results revealed early-stage (precancerous) cervical lesions. Without timely intervention, these changes could have progressed to cervical cancer.

 Because the condition was detected early, Rose was able to receive prompt interventions, successfully preventing disease progression. Reflecting on her experience, Rose shares that although she initially feared screening, the decision ultimately saved her life. Today, she is healthy and serves as a vocal advocate for cervical cancer prevention in her community, encouraging women to seek regular screening.

Through the U.S. Government–funded Dumisha Afya project, implemented under the auspices of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, cervical cancer screening services are supported across 168 health facilities in Bungoma and Busia counties.

Between October 2024 and September 2025, the project facilitated cervical cancer screening for 20,353 women living with HIV, resulting in 306 positive screenings, 170 cases with advanced lesions, and successful treatment access for 232 (75%) clients.

These efforts are a testament of Dumisha Afya’s critical role in reducing the burden of cervical cancer through early detection, timely treatment, and sustained community engagement, especially among women living with HIV.