WHO URGES GLOBAL ACTION IN CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness month and in commemoration of it, the World Health Organization (WHO) has urged its member states to actively engage in awareness campaigns, promote screening, and encourage Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among young women.

Cervical cancer is a condition where there is an abnormal growth or proliferation of the cells lining the cervix or the lower portion of the uterus. The infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common cause of cervical cancer.

In a statement,WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti emphasized the importance of educating people about minimizing cervical cancer risks and the life-saving significance of regular screenings.

The WHO is supporting countries in the region to move towards HPV screening, and a breakthrough involves self-sampling kits for HPV testing. Dr Moeti highlighted the need for countries to actively engage in awareness campaigns and promote vaccination, stating that cervical cancer can be prevented and cured.

The WHO encourages the use of a highly effective single-dose HPV vaccine to increase coverage and reduce dropouts from the vaccine schedule. Dr Moeti said in 2020, 100,000 women in the region developed cervical cancer, with 70,000 succumbing to the disease, highlighting a pressing issue that disproportionately affects vulnerable communities.

“The campaign emphasizes the critical need for women, especially young ones, to be informed about the link between cervical cancer and the human papillomavirus (HPV). Almost all cases (99%) are linked to this common virus, making awareness, screening, and vaccination pivotal in the fight against the disease”. She said.

Recognizing the gaps in knowledge and access to screening, Dr. Moeti said the WHO African Region has launched a public health framework aimed at eliminating cervical cancer. Targets include high HPV vaccine coverage, increased screening rates, and improved treatment for pre-cancer and advanced cases.

The WHO’s campaign emphasizes being informed, getting screened, and getting vaccinated to combat this burden effectively.

The Regional Director urged all countries to actively engage in awareness campaigns, promote screening, and encourage HPV vaccination. “As 2024 begins, the message resonates: cervical cancer can be prevented and cured through collective efforts. The WHO Regional Office for Africa remains dedicated to partnering with countries and stakeholders to accelerate action and eliminate cervical cancer, ensuring no woman in Africa faces this devastating disease”. She added.