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Cervical Cancer
#CANSACervicalAwareness #EliminateCervicalCancer
17 November 2022 marks the Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action and the second anniversary of the launch of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem.
The Global Strategy and its related targets represent a unique opportunity to drive long-term, sustainable advocacy and save lives.
The elimination initiative suggests a three-pillar approach:
No one intervention alone will be enough. The strategy requires accelerated action in prevention through vaccination, early detection through screening and timeous cancer treatment.
- 90% of girls fully vaccinated with HPV vaccine by 15 years
- 70% of women screened with a high-performance test by 35 and 45 years of age, pre-cancerous lesions are treated early
- 90% of women identified with cervical disease receive treatment
Cervical Cancer in SA:
Nearly 11 000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually in South Africa, making it the second most common cancer among women as well as having the highest death rate among women.
This is NOT necessary when HPV vaccinations can assist in lowering risk for this cancer, and regular Pap smears can detect it early.
Cervical cancer in the early stages is highly treatable.
Women are also encouraged to stay the course and return for follow-up screening or treatment as staying away leads to unnecessary loss of life.
Know the Symptoms
- abnormal bleeding between periods,
- heavier and longer menstrual period,
- vaginal discharge,
- vaginal bleeding or pain during intercourse / after menopause
- increased urinary frequency.
Know the Risk Factors:
- cervical cancer is mainly caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a common virus spread through skin to skin contact, body fluids and sexual intercourse. Failure to use protection during sexual intercourse, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), multiple sexual partners, early sexual debut, and use of oral contraceptives increases risk.
- being overweight and inactive,
- consuming alcohol,
- poor dietary habits,
- smoking,
- exposure to chemicals
CANSA conducted several Pap smear screening campaigns in communities across the country in August
CANSA in KwaZulu-Natal teamed up with Netcare uMhlanga Hospital, and a group of doctors led by gynae oncologist Dr K Govender, to carry out free Pap smears on Friday, 19 August 2022 at the Netcare uMhlanga Medical Centre. The goal was to screen 250 women in support of CANSA’s cervical cancer awareness campaign and we are proud to say 224 women were screened. East Coast Radio also supported and promoted the campaign. We say a huge thank you to our partners : Netcare Umhlanga, Aurora Gynaeoncology, PathCare, Ampath Laboratories, Lancet Laboratories, Hirsch's Homestore, Hollywood Foundation, Rotary Club Durban Morningside and the women of KwaZulu Natal for making the time to have your Pap Smear done.
