Kenyans continue to mourn the untimely passing of celebrated gospel singer Betty Bayo, who died at Kenyatta National Hospital. The beloved mother of two had been privately battling acute leukaemia, a fast-progressing form of blood cancer that impairs the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells.
Medical Background of Betty Bayo’s Illness
According to her family, Betty was admitted to hospital after doctors discovered the severity of her condition. Acute leukaemia caused serious complications, including internal bleeding, which worsened in her final hours. Despite keeping her illness private, Betty fought the disease with courage and faith.
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, such as bone marrow and lymphatic system. It primarily affects white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. In leukaemia, the bone marrow produces excessive abnormal white blood cells that crowd out healthy cells, weakening the immune system.
Causes and Risk Factors
While the exact cause of leukaemia is unclear, experts link it to a combination of genetic mutations and environmental factors. Key risk factors include:
- Genetic mutations in blood cells leading to uncontrolled growth
- Previous exposure to radiation or chemotherapy
- Smoking and chemical exposure, particularly benzene
- Genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome
- Family history of leukaemia
Types and Symptoms
Leukaemia is classified by how rapidly it progresses and which blood cells it affects:
- Acute leukaemia: Rapidly progressing, involving immature blood cells.
- Chronic leukaemia: Slower progression, allowing cells to function for a time.
- Lymphocytic leukaemia: Affects lymphoid immune cells.
- Myelogenous leukaemia: Affects cells producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Common symptoms include persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, frequent infections, fever, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, easy bruising, and bone or joint pain. Early diagnosis is critical due to the aggressive nature of acute leukaemia.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis involves physical examinations, blood tests to detect abnormal cells, and bone marrow tests. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of the disease and the patient’s overall health, and may include:
- Chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells
- Targeted therapy to block specific cancer growth abnormalities
- Radiation therapy
- Bone marrow transplants
- Immunotherapy in select cases
Legacy and Tributes
Betty Bayo’s death has left a significant void in Kenya’s gospel music scene. Known for hits like “Eleventh Hour” and “Thiiri”, her voice inspired millions of fans. Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians and admirers, celebrating her courage, faith, and impactful musical legacy.
Her battle with leukaemia highlights the silent but serious threat of blood cancers, raising awareness while honoring a life of faith, music, and resilience.
