Cervical cancer continues to disproportionately affect women in Africa and other low- and middle-income countries, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warns, with nearly 90% of new cases and deaths occurring in these regions.
The United Nations health agency has set 2030 goals to curb the disease, including vaccinating 90% of girls against human papillomavirus (HPV), screening 70% of women, and treating 90% of cervical disease cases.
January marks World Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign promoting prevention, early detection, and treatment. This year’s theme, “Learn. Prevent. Screen,” urges women to take action before symptoms appear, highlighting the life-saving potential of HPV vaccination and regular screenings.
Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in the cervix, often caused by the HPV. In 2020, WHO recorded 604 000 new cases and 342 000 deaths worldwide, with African women carrying a disproportionate share of the burden. Limited access to vaccines and screening programmes means many cases are diagnosed only after the disease has progressed.
Health experts say regular screening significantly reduces the risk of invasive disease, while safe sexual practices and avoiding smoking can further lower risk. The campaign calls for governments, communities, and families to ensure women understand cervical cancer risks and have access to preventive care.
–ChannelAfrica/WHO
