Kenya Acquires Sh675 Million Advanced Cancer Treatment Machine from the US

Kenya has acquired an advanced cancer treatment machine known as CyberKnife, becoming the second African country to own the machine after Egypt.

CyberKnife Stereotactic Radiosurgery System, the world’s only robotic radiosurgery system, is used to provide radiation treatment for a wide range of cancers including brain tumors, head and neck cancer, lung, breast, spinal, liver, pancreas and prostate cancer.

The equipment was procured by Kenyatta University Teaching, Research and Referral Hospital (KUTRRH) from Accuray, an American company that manufactures radiotherapy systems for alternative cancer treatments. Nation reported that the machine cost the government Sh675 million.

“The delivery of the CyberKnife today at KUTRRH is a milestone in the provision of robotic radiosurgery treatment. It treats without affecting adjacent cells,” Prof. Olive Mugenda, the hospital’s Board Chairperson, said on Thursday.

She added: “This valuable precision nuclear medicine for cancerous & non-cancerous tumors is a game changer for Kenya and the region.” 

The CyberKnife technology administers non-invasive treatment for cancerous and non-cancerous tumors. It uses robotics in conjunction with image guidance technology to precisely deliver pulses of high dose that target tumors and other abnormal tissues anywhere in the body.

The entire CyberKnife procedure is typically completed in just 1 to 5 out-patient sessions, providing a shorter overall course of treatment compared to conventional radiation therapy which typically takes 30-40 sessions, according to Accuray.

Cancer is the third leading cause of death in Kenya after infectious and cardiovascular diseases, data from the Ministry of Health shows.