You have finally done it. You have mustered the courage to walk into a clinic and ask to be tested for HPV, because you read about cervical cancer, you heard a friend’s story, or something deep inside you said: it’s time to know.
You sit in that chair. You breathe through the discomfort of the pap smear. You did the hard part.
And then the doctor says: “Your HPV DNA PCR results will be ready in 7 days.“
Seven. Days.
Seven days of lying awake at night, playing out every scenario. Seven days of searching symptoms online at 2 a.m. Seven days of carrying a question that has no answer yet , and that silence is heavy.
What if you didn’t have to wait anymore?
What if PCR testing was made quick and reliable?
A New Standard of Care Has Arrived at 3Rivers
We believe that when you are brave enough to walk through our doors, you deserve answers, not someday, but today.
That is why we at 3Rivers Cancer Centre has onboarded the PCR Truenat machine, a state-of-the-art PCR diagnostic technology that changes everything about how quickly and accurately you can know your results.
What Can the Truenat Machine Test For?
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) – detecting 8 high-risk types linked to cervical cancer
Hepatitis B (Hep B) – including chronic infection screening
Hepatitis C (Hep C) – rapid detection for peace of mind
And the turnaround time? Not 7 days. Not even 24 hours.
JUST 1 HOUR.
Why Rapid, Accurate Testing Matters
Early detection saves lives – the sooner you know, the sooner care can begin
Reduced anxiety – days of waiting have real mental health consequences
High accuracy – Truenat’s PCR technology meets international diagnostic standards
Accessible – available right here at 3Rivers, no referral to another facility needed
Book Your Test Today
Whether you are here for routine screening, concerned about an exposure, or simply taking charge of your health, we are ready for you.
Visit us at 3Rivers Cancer Centre or call +256772555640 to schedule your appointment. Results in 1 hour. Because your peace of mind matters.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when it is detected early. A Pap smear is a simple screening test that helps identify abnormal changes in cervical cells before they develop into cancer.
In Uganda, cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women, with about 7000 new cases and over 4,600 deaths annually. Each January, we raise awareness about early detection and screening of cervical cancer to improve outcomes among our women.
At 3Rivers Cancer Center, we provide comprehensive cervical cancer screening and follow-up care, guided by experienced gynecologic oncologists who support patients at every stage of the process.
What Is a Pap Smear?
A Pap smear is a medical test used to examine cells from the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. The test looks for abnormal or precancerous cell changes that could develop into cervical cancer if left untreated.
In some cases, the Pap smear may be combined with HPV testing, which checks for the human papillomavirus (HPV) , the main cause of cervical cancer. Together, these tests help identify risk early and guide appropriate care.
Why Pap Smear Screening Is Important
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly and often causes no symptoms in its early stages. Abnormal cell changes can be present for years before cancer develops.
Regular Pap smear screening helps detect these changes early, when they are most treatable. Early detection can prevent cervical cancer altogether or allow treatment at an early, more manageable stage.
Who Should Get a Pap Smear?
Screening recommendations depend on age, health history, and individual risk factors. In general:
Cervical cancer screening begins in early adulthood, from 21 years of age.
Regular screening continues until later adulthood, depending on previous test results and medical history.
Your healthcare provider will help determine the most appropriate screening schedule for you. At 3Rivers Cancer Center, our gynecologic oncologists are available to guide screening decisions, interpret results, and plan next steps when needed.
What Happens During a Pap Smear
A Pap smear is a quick procedure that usually takes only a few minutes:
Positioning and Examination You will lie comfortably on an examination table while a clinician gently inserts a speculum into the vagina to allow a clear view of the cervix.
Cell Collection A small brush or spatula is used to collect cells from the surface of the cervix. This step is brief and may cause mild pressure or slight discomfort, but it should not be painful.
Laboratory Testing The collected cells are sent to a laboratory for analysis to check for abnormal changes.
After the test, most people can return to their normal activities right away.
Preparing for Your Pap Smear
To ensure the most accurate results, you may be advised to:
Avoid vaginal creams or medications for 1–2 days before the test.
Schedule the test when you are not menstruating, if possible.
If you feel anxious or have concerns, your care team at 3Rivers Cancer Center is available to answer questions and provide reassurance before and during the procedure.
Understanding Your Results
Pap smear results are usually available within a few days to a few weeks:
Normal results mean no abnormal cells were found, and routine screening will continue.
Abnormal results mean cell changes were detected. This does not always mean cancer, but further testing or closer follow-up may be needed.
Our gynecologic oncologists will carefully review your results, explain what they mean, and guide you through any necessary follow-up or treatment.
Take Charge of Your Cervical Health
Regular Pap smears save lives! If you are due for screening or have questions about cervical cancer prevention, contact us to schedule an appointment and receive expert, compassionate care.
Reach out to us and book a consultation with our consultants who will walk you through this journey. We are located at Afri-Courts Building on Buganda road. You can reach us on our hospital lines +256772555640 / +256758666312.
Article written by: Dr. Joy Mueni – Medical staff at 3Rivers Cancer Centre
Celebrating Four Years of Grace, Growth, and Healing at 3Rivers Cancer Center
On 14th December 2025, we gathered to celebrate a significant milestone ; 4 years of 3Rivers Cancer Center! The celebration itself was beautiful, but even more meaningful was the journey that led us there.
The weeks and months leading up to our 4th anniversary had been marked by both challenges and victories. We walked alongside many patients and families, offering care and hope during some of their most difficult moments. At the same time, we witnessed growth ; in our team, in our services, and in our collective capacity to deliver compassionate, excellent cancer care.
As we reflected during the celebration, a great ship sailing deep seas requires expert skill to navigate. Through waves and storms, 3Rivers Cancer Centre has continued to move forward.
For this, we are deeply grateful to our management team, led by our CEO, Dr. Abrahams Omoding, whose steady leadership has guided us through complex seasons with wisdom and courage. We thank the board of Directors who serve together with the CEO to strategically move us forward and continue to thank God for the grace and insight He has poured upon the leadership.
The people we passionately serve: Patients and their Caregivers
It has been a true privilege to steward the care of the many patients who have walked through our doors. Each story entrusted to us reinforces why we do what we do.
The theme of our fourth anniversary celebration “Growing in Grace and Healing with Passion” captured the heart of our mission. One of the most moving moments of the event was hearing patient and caregiver reflections, as they courageously shared their personal cancer journeys. Their stories reminded us that behind every diagnosis is a human life, a family, and a community.
We also took time to remember and honor those we have lost in this battle. They fought bravely, and their lives continue to shape the work we do. We hold their families close in our hearts.
The Great Team at 3RCC
Celebration would not be complete without recognizing the people who make 3RCC what it is. We honored all Employees of the Month in 2025, and proudly celebrated our Employee of the Year 2025, Florence Namugenyi who is a true example of dedication, compassion, and excellence in cancer care.
We also took a special moment to honor our long-serving team members – Isma Nabwii, Gerald Lubega, and Hassan Muhammad – who have been part of 3Rivers Cancer Center since its inception. Their loyalty and commitment have helped shape the foundation upon which our institution stands today. We are deeply grateful for the years they have poured into this vision, walking the journey from the earliest days and continuing to serve with dedication and excellence.
Beyond individual awards, we celebrated the entire 3 Rivers team – from outpatient to inpatient care – acknowledging our growth in numbers, our deepening knowledge in oncology care, and the expansion of specialized services. These include initiatives such as the Gynecology Oncology Clinic under Dr. Irumba, and the neurology clinic under Dr. Mukisa alongside the strengthening of partnerships with multiple organizations who share our vision.
Cancer care is never the work of one person. It is the result of many hands, many minds, and many hearts working quietly and consistently together. We formally extend our gratitude to every department for their collective contribution over the past year:
Front Desk Team
Nursing Department
Clinical Team and Consultants
Pharmacy Department
Laboratory Department
Accounts and Finance Department
Hospitality and Sanitation Department
Security Team
Management and Administration
Our Partners, Directors and Shareholders
Each role matters. Each contribution counts.
We closed the celebration with words that beautifully captured the spirit of 3Rivers Cancer Centre – a poem written by one of our pharmacy team members, Hadad Dauda:
An idea was conceived, and of it 3Rivers was birthed, And by His grace it thrived; in no time some years it had lived. Each day we come, a layer at a time, We build strong, tall, and firm – a haven against the scourge. From where we shall lead the purge, when we eventually come of age.
Growth is a right, unless it’s malignant, Then upon it descends our might, For we have the tools to fight. Long may 3Rivers last, And stand head and shoulders tallest, In the frontier boundless and vast, of preservation of human life.
As we step into our 5th year, we do so with gratitude, humility, and renewed commitment. The journey continues – and we remain steadfast in our calling to serve in grace together.
Since 2009, 25th September has been celebrated as World Pharmacists’ Day, in commemoration of the 1912 establishment of the International Pharmaceutical Federation. It is the day that the role of the pharmacist is celebrated in as far their contribution to the ever changing and growing global health system.
Think Health, Think Pharmacist
This year, it will be celebrated under the theme, ‘Think Health, Think Pharmacist’, underlining the growing need more than ever to involve qualified pharmacists in the crucial points of the global health system that has for the past decade or so, grown by leaps and bounds.
Pharmacists at the Frontline of Information
While the health system suffers from varying levels of fragility all over the world and external factors such as political climate, financial stability and climate change, the most crucial and universal threat is the prevalence of information in the digital era. This makes the need for well-trained pharmacists crucial. This would reduce the harm that can result from disinformation since pharmacists quite often are at the first contact of patients with the healthcare system in this part of the world.
In developing countries, due to financial constraints, it is tempting to replace pharmacists with other para-professionals, even for tasks and roles that would be the preserve of trained pharmacists. While a quick buck is saved in the short term, the possibility of costly consequences is a matter of when and not if. The eventual cost is not only financial, but human as well.
Pharmacy in Oncology: A Unique Calling
In the oncology space, the role of the pharmacist is not only becoming clearer by the day, but also more engaging than probably most other practice spaces in which pharmacists thrive.
While we are safe from illegible handwriting, impatient patients and the like, we are charged with the responsibility of handling dangerous and hazardous chemo drugs, and appropriately preparing them for administration to the patient, a process whose room for error is zero for both the safety of the patient as well as the health of the pharmacist.
Cancer treatments and care are always rapidly evolving, this makes oncology practice very exciting, however, the pharmacist being the custodian of knowledge on drugs, is kept on his toes to keep abreast of the latest knowledge and technologies in cancer care. This, coupled with the multi-disciplinary nature of cancer care teams, makes the pharmacist not only a life long learner, but also a life-long teacher. Possession of skills to teach others have a ripple effect and can be the difference between a good care team and an excellent care team.
The Future of Oncology Pharmacy
In this part of the world, futuristically speaking, tumor boards will eventually be instituted, and thus the role of the pharmacist will further expand beyond simply execution of treatment plans to include contribution to the making of the treatment plans themselves. This will relieve the currently overwhelmed oncologists while also ensuring that their skills can fluently be passed on to the rest of the lower cadres. Per Medicatum Servium.
Celebrating Our Pharmacy Team
This article was written by the Pharmacy team at 3Rivers Cancer Centre. We thank you Ivan, Hadad and Gerald for your excellent service and hard-working spirit in our Pharmacy Department!
On Sunday 31st August 2025, we had the privilege of being part of the Rotary Cancer Run Medical Village, where hospitals and health organisations from across the country came together to serve the community through cancer screening.
Medical Village Cancer Screening
As 3Rivers Cancer Centre, we partnered with Oncopharm, BioHealth Africa, and Metropolis to offer some cancer screening services at the Medical Village. Together, we provided a range of services; Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C testing, PSA for prostate health, haemoglobin checks, random blood sugar testing, nutrition counselling and HPV self-testing services, making screening more accessible.
From the moment the runners started arriving, there was a buzz around the Medical Village. Lines began forming early; young and old, students as young as 17, families, and even elderly runners who had just completed their race. Some people stopped by, curious and asking, “What’s PSA?” while others were eager to know their blood sugar levels or check their Hepatitis B&C status.
Interactions at the Medical Village
What stood out most were the conversations. We offered medical advice to individuals who wanted to understand their risks better, and we saw relief on the faces of those who received reassuring results. Nutrition tips were also shared; simple but impactful steps to lower cancer risk through lifestyle changes.
It was inspiring to see so many people of all ages, not only running for a cause, but also taking action for their own health. The Medical Village became more than a service point; it was a place of learning, reassurance, and hope. By the end of the day, hundreds of people had been served, each interaction reinforcing why early detection matters. It saves lives and reduces the burden of treatment.
We are grateful to the Rotary Cancer Run Medical Village team for reaching out to us and for creating a platform where collaboration could shine, and cancer awareness raised.
OurCancerScreening Services
To organizations, if you would like your staff to benefit from cancer screening and prevention services, reach out to us as we are ready to partner with you to protect the health of your team.
To our community, don’t wait for the next big event to prioritize your health. Screening is available, and we welcome you to come through to 3Rivers Cancer Centre for these cancer screening services.
Reach out to us via our hospital lines +256772555640 / +256758666312 to book a consultation. We are located at Afri-Courts Building on Buganda road.
July is Sarcoma Awareness Month and we at 3Rivers Cancer Centre are committed to sharing information about sarcomas.
About Sarcomas:
They are a group of malignant tumours found in various tissues in the body. They develop in the bones and soft tissues, including fat, muscles, blood vessels, nerves, deep skin tissues and fibrous tissues.
They comprise of 1% of adult cancer diagnosis, making them a rare form of cancer.
Soft tissue sarcomas form in cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, tendons, nerves, and around joints. They are more common in adults, but also occur in children.
Bone sarcomas (Osteosarcomas) are bone tumors. They are more common in children.
Liposarcomas form in fat cells.
Rhabdomyosarcomas form in muscle.
Risk factors:
Most of them do not have a known cause, however there are several risk factors, including;
History of radiation therapy
Genetic disorders
Chemical exposure
Long-term swelling
Here is an infographic highlighting the definition and symptoms of sarcomas:
Treatment of sarcomas:
They are treated with a combination of chemotherapy , radiation therapy and surgery.
Your treatment plan will depend on the type of sarcoma, tumor location and size, your age, and multiple other factors.
Reach out to us and book a consultation with our consultants who will walk you through this journey. We are located at Afri-Courts Building on Buganda road. You can reach us on our hospital lines +256772555640 / +256758666312.
We pride ourselves in ensuring we provide patient-centered, individualized care as we journey towards your recovery.
Article written by: Dr. Joy Mueni – Medical staff at 3Rivers Cancer Centre
While quite often a month is dedicated towards fighting a particular cancer or raising awareness about it, the month of June focuses more on those most forgotten, the cancer survivors. Those that live to tale the tale.
Honoring the Unsung Heroes: Cancer Survivors The sheer presence of a cancer survivor is testament to the fact that cancers can be defeated, but as well emphasizes the cost, both financial and material, as well as physical or bodily sacrifice that are needed to beat cancer. This could be a major surgical procedure, impairment of a particular physiological system, among others of which the main aim is to improve chances of survival with the patient’s quality of life in mind.
It is with this background that a month is dedicated to the survivors, their existence is an inspiration to the oncology care providers to soldier on in the fight against cancer, it makes the fight worthwhile. They are also inspiration to patients out there still battling cancer, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
We celebrate cancer survivors
Beyond Survival: The Lingering Challenges Survivors Face However, it is not enough to simply draw inspiration from them, we ought to use their experiences as a guide to better optimize cancer care. We need to recognize as well that coupled with the physical bodily costs of surviving cancer, survivors have to sometimes grapple with irreversible damage or injury incurred due to the disease or as part of the treatment modalities, and sometimes these may be severe and debilitating, affecting their social life forever.
June is therefore the rare opportunity once more that the cancer healthcare system needs, to recognize the special challenges that cancer survivors face and find workable ways of mitigating these. Be it psycho-social support or otherwise, cancer survivors are in continuous need of the rest of us to be their bedrock because only we may understand the challenges they face.
Voices That Matter: The Power of Survivors’ Stories Away from the challenges, survivors are needed more in the oncology support spaces and should be encouraged to share their stories more and more to shine light upon what quite often is a grim situation. With this, we might have health seeking behaviour of our population improve, routine screenings done more and subsequently be able to diagnose patients in earlier stages of the disease. This would be simply a result of cancer survivors demystifying the cancer journey to the general population.
This June, we shall celebrate the survivors, we shall honor the fallen and encourage those still in the thick of the battle.
Article written by: Hadad Dauda (3rcc Pharmacy team member)
May is Oncology Nursing Month —a time to celebrate the incredible care provided by oncology nurses around the world. With dedication, compassion, and unwavering resilience, oncology nurses make a profound impact in the cancer journeys of our dear patients.
This year, the theme is “Caring beyond limits” and is a global celebration of the role oncology nurses play in providing exceptional cancer care.
At 3Rivers Cancer Centre, we take this moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our nurses for a job well done:
For the holistic care you provide – both physical and emotional – that greatly improves our patients’ quality of life.
For fostering hope and resilience – by empowering patients with knowledge, encouragement, and support.
For advocating for the best possible ways to enhance the care we give.
Thank you to our nurses in all departments;
From our Front Desk Nurses, who welcome our patients with warm smiles and ensure they are reminded of their appointment dates—it is truly commendable work.
To our Outpatient Department Nurses, who diligently care for walk-in patients, even during overwhelming days. Your ability to remember patients by name and treat each one with patience and respect does not go unnoticed—we deeply appreciate your commitment.
To our Inpatient Department Nurses, who personalize care by understanding patients’ concerns, monitoring them closely, and ensuring they receive their medications on time—your attention and dedication speak volumes. The work of your hands is seen, valued, and celebrated.
To our Theatre Nurses, who care for patients undergoing surgery with exceptional precision, calm, and compassion—thank you for the crucial role you play in ensuring patient safety and comfort before, during, and after procedures. Your presence brings reassurance during some of the most vulnerable moments in a patient’s journey.
As we continue to celebrate you, our dear nurses, this Oncology Nursing Month, we want you to know this: Your teamwork is the reason we enjoy a smooth and efficient workflow. We are grateful for the unity you bring to the team and we pray that this spirit continues to grow, bringing even greater efficiency in the provision of excellent cancer care.
May God bless you abundantly! We celebrate you today and always.
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that originates from plasma cells in the bone marrow. Plasma cells are a crucial part of the immune system, responsible for producing antibodies that help protect the body from infections. However, when these cells become cancerous, they multiply uncontrollably and produce an abnormal antibody known as M protein, which is a hallmark of multiple myeloma.
Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma
The symptoms are often summarized using the acronym CRAB: C – Hypercalcemia: Elevated calcium levels in the blood due to bone destruction. R – Renal dysfunction: Kidney problems caused by the overproduction of M protein and calcium. A – Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells, leading to fatigue and weakness. B – Bone pain: Caused by the weakening of bones, which increases the risk of fractures.
In multiple myeloma, the cancerous plasma cells overcrowd the bone marrow, leaving less room for healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This can result in anemia, a weakened immune system (making it harder to fight infections), and excessive bleeding due to low platelet counts.
The bone pain associated with this condition is a result of bone destruction, which weakens the bones and increases the likelihood of fractures. Hypercalcemia occurs when calcium is released into the bloodstream due to bone breakdown. Additionally, kidney failure can develop as the kidneys become overworked from filtering excess M protein and calcium.
Early Diagnosis and Treatment Are Key
Multiple myeloma is a complex disease, but early evaluation and treatment can significantly improve outcomes. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, hematologists, and supportive care specialists, is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management of the condition. For more detailed information about multiple myeloma, you can visit the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation’s page.
March is Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about this condition, support those affected, and highlight the importance of early detection and advanced treatment options.
At 3Rivers Cancer Centre, we are committed to providing exceptional cancer care tailored to your needs. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about multiple myeloma, don’t hesitate to reach out. Book an appointment today to take the first step toward comprehensive care and support
Article written by: Dr. Joy Mueni Muli – Medical staff at 3Rivers Cancer Centre
Every 4th of February, the world comes together to observe World Cancer Day, raising awareness about cancer, promoting prevention, and mobilizing action to combat the global cancer epidemic. This World Cancer Day 2025 theme, “United by Unique”, highlights the importance of people-centered cancer care and explores innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
At 3Rivers Cancer Centre, this is more than just a theme—it is a core value that defines the way we care for our patients every day. We believe that cancer is more than a medical diagnosis. Behind every diagnosis is a real person with a unique story, emotions, fears, and hopes. That’s why we prioritize individualized, holistic care, ensuring that every patient feels seen, heard, and supported throughout their journey.
Our approach to cancer care is rooted in compassion, empathy, and respect. We don’t just treat the disease; we treat the person. We take the time to listen, understand, and tailor treatment based on each patient’s specific needs. We also recognize the vital role of family and caregivers, engaging them in the process to create a supportive environment for healing.
At 3Rivers Cancer Centre, you are not just a patient—you are part of our community. Your voice matters in every decision about your care, and we are committed to walking with you every step of the way.
We see you, we hear you and we understand you. You have a voice and matter deeply to us.
As we mark World Cancer Day 2025, let us continue to stand together—united by our unique stories, united in care, and united in hope.
