When contraception myths deal blow to war on diseases

Myths and misconceptions surrounding modern contraceptives have been blamed for the high number of diseases among children in Marsabit County.

Women in the county are reported to be giving birth to between five and seven children, considered the highest number in the country.

According to the county director of health services, Dr Boru Okotu, Marsabit has poor uptake of contraceptives. He said the region is rated 43rd countrywide in terms of counties which are risky for infant survival.

Dr Okotu attributed the damning reports to the beliefs and unfounded narratives embraced among the locals that usage of the modern contraceptives causes cancer to both men and women. “This has resulted in high infant mortality rates due to low modern contraceptives uptake,” he said.