A recent nationwide health survey has highlighted a worrying increase in cases of chest-related illnesses, malaria, and skin conditions, signaling a growing public health challenge in the country. The survey, conducted by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), reveals that while the total number of diseases recorded in health facilities dropped by 24.6% compared to the previous year, certain diseases saw significant increases in prevalence.
Chest-related illnesses emerged as the leading concern, with a nearly eight percent increase in cases compared to 2023, affecting over 19 million people. These diseases, which affect the respiratory system, include both acute infections and chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. Respiratory diseases remain one of the top causes of death globally, and their rising incidence in Kenya is alarming. Experts highlight that chronic respiratory conditions often go under-addressed in many public health programs, which contributes to the growing health burden.
Additionally, malaria infections, which had been on a declining trend for several years due to various public health interventions, have made a resurgence. Experts attribute this spike to the ability of malaria-causing mosquitoes to adapt to control measures. Mosquitoes have developed resistance to insecticides used in bed nets, and they have altered their biting patterns, now feeding in the early morning when people are less likely to be protected. This behavioral shift has made traditional interventions less effective. Furthermore, mosquitoes are increasingly biting outdoors, a scenario that current malaria control measures, which focus on indoor protection, are ill-equipped to address.
Another significant factor contributing to the malaria spike is climate change, which is altering the habitat and range of malaria vectors, including new species of mosquitoes reaching urban areas. Despite these challenges, advances in malaria vaccination for children have helped reduce the severity of malaria infections in the country. However, funding constraints continue to limit the widespread use of some more costly interventions, such as indoor spraying, which remains a vital tool in the fight against malaria.
Skin infections have also been a major concern, with the survey indicating that they ranked third in terms of the number of cases recorded. Several factors have contributed to the rise in skin-related illnesses, including better access to dermatological services. In the past, dermatologists were relatively scarce, especially in rural areas, but with the increasing number of trained specialists, more cases are being diagnosed and reported. Additionally, the country’s changing weather patterns, including periods of high humidity and sunshine, have created conditions that exacerbate skin problems, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
Viral skin conditions, such as herpes and warts, have been among the most common types of infections reported. Dermatologists caution that the overuse of over-the-counter medications for skin conditions has contributed to a rise in resistance, making it harder to treat infections effectively. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, patients often develop more complicated cases, requiring more advanced and expensive care.
While the government and health organizations are working to tackle these health issues, the data from this survey underscores the need for continued investment in public health infrastructure and education. Addressing the growing prevalence of these diseases will require a multifaceted approach, including better access to healthcare services, increased public awareness, and sustained funding for prevention and treatment programs.
