Empowering Survivors, Educating Communities: A Breast Cancer Awareness Milestone in Kisii County, Kenya
Image 1: A survivor and a nurse teaching about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer in a community in Kisii
The Know Your Lemons Foundation is proud to spotlight the outstanding work of our partner, the Martha Cancer Survivors Support Centre Kisii, whose recent breast cancer awareness campaign is a powerful example of survivor-led change.
In partnership with the Kisii County Department of Health, the Centre launched a local adaptation of the Know Your Lemons 12 Signs of Breast Cancer as a community education tool. Their goal? To empower breast cancer survivors as educators and improve early detection through visual and culturally relevant breast health education.
🍋 A Survivor-Led Solution for Early Detection
In October 2024, the Know Your Lemons 12 signs of breast cancer flip chart was officially launched in Kisii County under the oversight of the Department of Health. It was also visually and verbally adapted to fit the community it served. Over 100 breast cancer survivors were trained to use the flip chart.
These survivors became advocates, reaching 757 community members across Kisii in February 2025 through outreach events that included interactive sessions, demonstrations, and group discussions.
🍋 Results That Matter
An impact assessment showed just how effective this initiative has been. Among 383 participants surveyed before and after the campaign, there was a significant improvement in knowledge about breast cancer signs and symptoms—evidence that survivor-led education works.
Understanding of all 12 signs of breast cancer increased by at least 20% after teaching.
🍋 Looking Ahead
This successful pilot is just the beginning. Plans are already underway to:
Expand the program to neighboring counties
Incorporate the KYL materials into routine health talks at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital and local dispensaries
🍋 Acknowledgments
We’re deeply grateful to the Martha Cancer Survivors Support Centre Kisii, the Department of Health Kisii County, and all the incredible survivors who championed this effort. Your leadership and dedication are saving lives.
📍To learn more or connect with the team in Kisii:
🔗 marthacancersurvivorssupportcentre.org
📧 drbahaty@gmail.com | 📞 +254 720 178543
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Every success like this is made possible through the generosity of our supporters.
Donate today to the Know Your Lemons Foundation and help bring education on early detection to more communities around the world.
