Cervical Cancer: Advocacy for Better Screening, Treatment, and Other Prevention Strategies

On August 21st, 2024, Being Africa hosted a pivotal X Space discussion centered on “Advocacy for Better Access to Screening, Treatment, and Other Prevention Strategies” for cervical cancer. This event featured profound insights from Ms. Phoebe Ongadi, Executive Director of the Kenyan Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO), and Mr. Joel Gitali, Chairman of the Kenya Tobacco Control and Health Promotion Alliance (KETCA). The session underscored the urgency of intensified advocacy and intervention to combat the cervical cancer epidemic in Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa.

The session began with a heartfelt introduction, during which Ms. Phoebe shared the tragic loss of her elder sister-in-law to cervical cancer, underscoring the urgent need for heightened awareness and early detection. She also highlighted the severity of cervical cancer as a public health crisis in Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa. She revealed that in sub-Saharan Africa, 323 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer daily, with 209 succumbing to the disease each day. This stark contrast to the statistics in developed nations like the United States where daily diagnoses and deaths stand at 38 and 16 respectively. These underscores a dire need for intensified advocacy and intervention in Africa. Ms. Phoebe stressed that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which has proven effective in reducing cervical cancer rates in countries where it is widely implemented, is essential for combating this disparity.

Ms. Phoebe emphasized that cervical cancer awareness must penetrate all societal levels. Her experience highlighted the critical need for increased education and early detection efforts to significantly reduce mortality rates. Despite the progress made, there remains a gap in awareness, particularly among educated communities.

Mr. Joel Gitali addressed the exacerbating role of tobacco use in cervical cancer risks. He explained that tobacco weakens the immune system, facilitating the progression of HPV infections to cancer. Mr. Gitali also discussed the cultural challenges associated with promoting HPV vaccination, including misconceptions and resistance fueled by misinformation. This underscores the need for a concerted effort to challenge myths and enhance understanding of both tobacco’s role in cancer risk and the benefits of vaccination.

Mr. Gitali also highlighted Kenya’s advancements in cancer control, led by organizations like KENCO. Notable milestones include the establishment of the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) and the introduction of the HPV vaccine in 2019. Despite these efforts, cultural misconceptions and falsehoods have impeded vaccine acceptance, with some misconceptions suggesting that the vaccine serves population control rather than cancer prevention.

Mr. Gitali went ahead and stated that the increase in cervical cancer screening among women aged 25 to 49 from 11% in 2018-2019 to 37.5% in 2022-2023 is a testament to ongoing awareness campaigns. However, challenges remain, particularly in accessing timely treatment due to limited healthcare facilities and geographical barriers, especially in rural areas.

Ms. Cecilia Lubanga, a participant in the discussion, highlighted the importance of engaging youth in cancer conversations. She emphasized that such discussions should extend beyond traditional settings to include youth-oriented forums, such as concerts and other events. Ms. Cecilia pointed out that many young people are unaware of the risks associated with cervical cancer and stressed the need for education at all levels, from schools to higher education institutions. Her insights underscored the necessity of involving youth in advocacy efforts to foster a more informed and proactive generation.

The discussion also focused on addressing harmful behaviors such as tobacco and alcohol use, early sexual activity, and child marriages, which increase HPV infection risks. The importance of dispelling myths and ensuring comprehensive education on sexual health and the dangers of promiscuity was emphasized. The need for improved access to cervical cancer prevention and care in remote areas remains critical, with geographical, economic, and cultural barriers continuing to hinder effective outreach.

Despite progress with devolution, gaps in trained personnel and service availability persist. Advocacy efforts must push for the inclusion of cervical cancer screening in national health insurance schemes to ensure affordability and accessibility for all.

The HPV vaccine remains a cornerstone in cervical cancer prevention, with proven efficacy in reducing cancer incidence. Addressing misconceptions about vaccine safety and effectiveness is vital for achieving the goal of eliminating cervical cancer. By prioritizing awareness, early detection, and vaccination, Kenya can work towards reducing the current rate of 10 daily cervical cancer deaths and moving closer to a future free from this preventable disease.

In conclusion, the discussion underscored the urgent need for collective action in the fight against cervical cancer. Stakeholders must collaborate to enhance advocacy, increase access to screening and treatment, and challenge cultural misconceptions. By leveraging platforms such as schools, religious institutions, and community events, and involving men and youth in the conversation, we can drive meaningful change.

Call to Action: All stakeholders—including government bodies, healthcare organizations, community leaders, and the general public are urged to commit to advancing cervical cancer prevention and treatment. Support advocacy efforts, promote HPV vaccination, and work towards dismantling barriers to care. Together, we can ensure that no woman is left behind and move towards a future where cervical cancer is no longer a major public health challenge. #HerReasonForBeing

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