Catastrophic Healthcare Expenditures and Household Poverty in Kenya: The Case of Cancer

Abstract

Cancer is a leading cause of mortality in many countries. Thus, the study sought to examine the relationship between catastrophic healthcare expenditures and household poverty in Kenya with a case of cancer. The study used a secondary dataset from the Kenya Household Health Expenditure and Utilization Survey (KHHEUS) 2018. The sample size was 37500. The study findings established that the direct and indirect costs of cancer treatment in Kenya are financially catastrophic for many households. The costs of cancer treatment, including medications and medical procedures, can be financially catastrophic for households in Kenya. Cancer is a leading cause of mortality and the disease likely has a significant effect on household poverty. Household level of education, Gender and locality is negatively related to household poverty while the household size is positively related to household poverty. Some geographic areas may have higher rates of poverty due to a variety of factors such as lack of job opportunities, limited access to education and healthcare, and other structural issues. The study recommended the government enhance the implementation of a universal healthcare coverage program and the expansion of healthcare facilities in underserved areas. There is a need to increase funding for cancer research. Additionally, there is a need to have efforts to increase competition in the pharmaceutical market and to regulate the pricing of healthcare services. It is important for policymakers and healthcare providers in Kenya to be aware of the potential economic impact of cancer and to work to mitigate its effects on households. Governments and insurance companies should implement policies that help to reduce the cost of cancer treatment, such as negotiating lower prices with manufacturers or providing financial assistance to patients. Moreover, there is a need to have gender balance and equal opportunities need to be established for all. The vices of discrimination based on gender need to be addressed. Efforts to address household poverty and gender inequality should focus on improving access to education, employment, and resources for women, as well as promoting gender equality and challenging discriminatory social norms.