The Africa Cancer Foundation (ACF) has clarified that it is not offering free breast cancer surgeries in 2024, debunking viral messages on social media. The foundation urged the public to disregard outdated information claiming that it is providing free breast cancer surgeries to 200 women this year. According to the ACF, the circulated message is no longer relevant as funding for the initiative is currently unavailable.
Wairimu Mwaura, the programme coordinator at ACF, emphasized the misinformation's impact, stating that it highlights the significant challenges cancer patients face, including screening, diagnostic support, treatment, and management. The foundation assured the public that it is actively seeking funding for the program, and once secured, it will communicate the information through its official social media platforms.
The confusion arose from a WhatsApp message sent in early 2022, inviting 200 breast cancer patients to sign up for free surgeries. At that time, ACF successfully provided surgeries to 200 women in need. However, an unknown source resurrected the message in February 2024, leading to misinformation and numerous requests for cancer care.
The ACF encouraged the public to follow its official social media accounts for accurate and updated information on its programs and initiatives.