Improving CAH Diagnosis and Care at Kenyatta National Hospital and University of Nairobi Department of Paediatrics & Child Health

​​The University of Nairobi’s Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, in collaboration with Kenyatta National Hospital, is implementing a project dedicated to improving the diagnosis, treatment, and overall care for individuals affected by Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) in Kenya. Spearheaded by Dr. Paul Laigong, a pediatric endocrinologist, lecturer, and Chair of the DSD Working Group at PESK, this initiative aims to bridge the gap in early detection, optimize medical management, and provide much-needed psychosocial support for affected individuals and their families.CAH remains underdiagnosed and mismanaged in Kenya due to limited awareness among healthcare providers, scarcity of essential medications, and deep-rooted stigma in the community. The project seeks to empower healthcare workers with essential knowledge, improve public awareness, and establish a strong support network for families impacted by the condition.
Key components of this initiative include:
  1. Medical Training for Healthcare Workers – Workshops and webinars will be held to educate doctors, nurses, and midwives on early diagnosis, treatment protocols, and referral pathways for CAH. Training materials will also be distributed to improve clinical decision-making and patient care.
  2. Community Awareness and Advocacy – A nationwide social media campaign will be launched to inform the public about CAH symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of early intervention. Additionally, collaboration with community leaders and media outlets will help reduce stigma and encourage families to seek medical support.
  3. Establishing a Baseline Prevalence Study – A comprehensive research study will be conducted to gather accurate data on the prevalence of CAH in Kenya. The study will utilize online surveys and hospital-based data collection to inform health policies and future medical interventions.
  4. Creating Support Networks – The project will establish patient and caregiver support groups to provide families with education, resources, and emotional support. Regular meetings and workshops will be conducted to help families navigate the challenges of CAH and improve their overall well-being.
To measure the project’s success, indicators such as the number of referrals post-training, the number of diagnosed patients retained in care, and the engagement level of the support groups will be tracked.

 By enhancing healthcare professionals’ capacity, improving early detection, and fostering community support, this project will play a vital role in ensuring better health outcomes and quality of life for individuals living with CAH in Kenya.