Surge in Cancer Cases Linked to Lifestyle and Food Choices, Says Neurosurgeon
ISAACK KOGEI
Dr. Florentius Koech, a Consultant Neurosurgeon, has raised concerns over the increasing cases of cancer, attributing the rise to lifestyle choices and food consumption patterns.
Speaking after a successful 12-hour head surgery at Top Hill Hospital, Dr. F. Koech emphasized that cancer cases have been steadily increasing over a short period, citing research findings that link the disease to food, water, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits.
“All types of cancers have been on a steady increase in a short time. Our research has found that food, water, environment, and lifestyle are significant contributors,” Dr. F.Koech stated.
He pointed out that among these factors, food plays a crucial role in the surge of cancer cases.
“The leading cause is the food we consume. Many chemicals are used in crop production. For instance, aflatoxin, if present in maize, can find its way into our bodies through direct consumption or indirectly through milk from animals that have ingested contaminated feed,” he explained.
Dr. Koech also cautioned against the unregulated use of pesticides, emphasizing that cancer is a long-term process that develops over years.
“Cancer doesn’t happen in a day; it takes years to build up in the body. That’s why people must be vigilant about what they consume,” he warned.
He urged the public to avoid uncertified pesticides, which are often used in an attempt to reduce manual labor in farming but pose serious health risks.
His remarks came shortly after performing a 12-hour head surgery on a patient from Kisii County at Top Hill Hospital. The patient, whose family faced financial constraints, was diagnosed with a tumor that required urgent intervention.
James Obwoba, the husband of the patient, recounted the distress the family endured when the tumor first appeared.
“We had lost hope when the tumor. It was very stressful, especially when it began affecting her right eye. We started at Nyanchwa Clinic in Kisii, and we are grateful that the surgery was successful. Now, we are focusing on physiotherapy to help her walk and talk again,” Obwoba said.
Dr. Koech reiterated the importance of early detection and lifestyle adjustments to mitigate the risks of cancer, urging the public to be more conscious of their food sources and overall health practices.
