Breast cancer is often associated with women, but Steve Ouda, a 48-year-old man from Siaya county, is challenging this stereotype.
Ouda’s battle with male breast cancer began at the age of 42, when he noticed a small lump in his right breast that kept growing.
At first, he dismissed it.
“When I first saw the swelling, I asked a neighbour what it could be and they told me it was probably nothing to worry about, just something that had developed in the body. They said it couldn’t be a disease,” Ouda recalls.
However, the lump continued to grow and Ouda became increasingly concerned.
“I decided to visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis.”
A biopsy at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in 2018 confirmed Ouda’s worst fear - he had breast cancer.
What followed was a journey of uncertainty, pain and resilience that ultimately led to his recovery.
“I was told I needed surgery to remove the lump and after that, I would undergo chemotherapy to prevent the cancer from spreading,” Ouda explains.
After the surgery, he spent days receiving blood transfusions.
Ouda underwent six cycles of chemotherapy, a gruelling and exhausting process.
“Chemotherapy took a lot out of me, and it’s not easy. I could barely do anything. I had to take it slow.”
But with the unwavering support of his family, including his parents, who stood by him after the loss of his wife, Ouda persevered.
He had to attend regular check ups, which moved to yearly. Today, Ouda is cancer-free and his wound has fully healed.
“My doctors have told me that I am doing fine, but should still reach out through a number they gave me, if I feel anything unusual or just visit the nearest facility for check up,” he says with a smile.
Ouda’s message to other men is clear - they should not ignore the signs of cancer.
“Even though breast cancer is commonly thought of as a women’s disease, men can also get it. If you notice any unusual lumps or changes in your body, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.”
Early screening and financial support for cancer patients, especially in light of the high costs associated with treatment, are crucial.
“Cancer treatment is very expensive and the government needs to step in to help make healthcare more accessible. After chemotherapy, many patients struggle to regain their strength and energy and some could benefit from small business loans or stipends to help them get back on their feet,” Ouda added.
Ouda’s survival story was among those celebrated at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital during an event marking World Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The event, titled ‘Cancer Sio Mwisho’ (Cancer is Not the End), was organised by the Anchor of Hope Cancer Support Group.
Julius Oduor, a clinical oncologist at JOORTH, said there is need for greater awareness among men.
“We have quite a number of male breast cancer patients in our clinic, but many of them come to us too late. The disease has already advanced,” Oduor said.
The event included on-site cancer screenings to encourage early detection and highlight the importance of timely medical intervention.
“Cancer doesn’t discriminate by gender and early detection can save lives,” Oduor said.
