Medical Screening Strongly Advised Before Extreme Physical Challenges - PS | Dawan Africa

By Kepher Otieno - Reporter

Kenya, 19 January 2026 - The Ministry of Health has placed renewed emphasis on medical screening as a critical safeguard for Kenyans planning to undertake extreme physical challenges.

According to Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, pre-participation health checks can mean the difference between a safe experience and a medical emergency.

The ministry recommends that individuals undergo basic medical evaluation at a recognized health facility or sports clinic before engaging in demanding activities such as ultra-marathons, high-altitude trekking or military-style boot camps. These checks should include blood pressure, blood sugar levels, haemoglobin status and, where possible, assessment of heart rhythm.

“People living with chronic illnesses should consult healthcare providers before attempting extreme activities, and medications that affect hydration or heat tolerance must be reviewed,” Muthoni said.

For high-altitude activities, the advisory further recommends screening for sickle cell trait or disease, noting that reduced oxygen levels can pose serious risks to affected individuals.

Training, Hydration and Nutrition

Beyond medical clearance, the ministry warned against poor preparation and rushed training programmes.

Athletes and adventure seekers were urged to build endurance gradually, avoid sudden “crash training,” and incorporate adequate rest and recovery periods.

The advisory cautioned against unsupervised intense training camps and harmful initiation rituals, which have increasingly been linked to severe injuries and muscle breakdown. Participants were encouraged to safely simulate event conditions such as heat, altitude and terrain, while prioritizing adequate sleep, strength training and flexibility.

Hydration and nutrition were highlighted as central pillars of safety, particularly in Kenya’s hot and diverse climatic conditions. Participants were advised to plan for sufficient safe drinking water, especially in remote or arid regions where water points are scarce.

The ministry warned against both dehydration and overhydration, urging athletes to replace salts and electrolytes during prolonged exertion. Maintaining adequate caloric intake was also stressed to prevent Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), a condition that weakens immunity, bone health and overall performance. Use of unregulated supplements and stimulants from informal markets was strongly discouraged.

Know the Warning Signs

The Health Ministry urged Kenyans undertaking extreme challenges to listen to their bodies and stop immediately if warning signs appear. Participants were advised to seek urgent medical care at the nearest health facility if they experience chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath or confusion.

Other red flags include collapse, hot or dry skin that may indicate heat stroke, dark or cola-coloured urine accompanied by severe muscle pain, persistent vomiting, inability to retain fluids, or severe headaches and loss of coordination at high altitude.

“These symptoms should never be ignored or ‘pushed through’ in the name of endurance,” the advisory warned.

Mental Health and Safety Measures

In addition to physical risks, the ministry acknowledged the growing mental health pressures associated with extreme physical challenges. These include performance anxiety, body image stress, extreme dieting, sleep deprivation and training addiction, often driven by competition, social media influence or the pursuit of sponsorship.

The advisory encouraged participants to seek support from coaches, counselors, peers or healthcare workers, stressing that mental well-being is integral to overall health and performance.

On practical safety, Kenyans were advised to inform someone of their planned routes and expected return times, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and use sun protection.

Gradual acclimatisation at altitude, avoidance of alcohol and stimulants before and during events, and carrying identification, emergency contacts, a mobile phone and basic first aid supplies were also recommended.

“Protecting health must always come before performance,” Ms Muthoni said, urging Kenyans to pursue fitness, adventure and personal challenge responsibly, without compromising long-term health and well-being.