S1 E12: Cervical Cancer Awareness - isiZulu

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is observed in January and is a public health campaign to provide education and urge   to take their gynaecological health seriously. In addition, 17 November is marked as Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action. Cervical cancer, which is caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), presents a significant public health threat to women on the African continent – all but one of the top 20 countries worldwide with the highest burden of cervical cancer in 2018 were in Africa. Cervical cancer progresses slowly from the precancer stage to invasive cancer and it is entirely curable if diagnosed and treated early. The tragedy is that while this type of cancer is one of the most preventable, poor access to prevention, screening and treatment contributes to 90% of deaths. The situation is further complicated by the fact that this cancer is also one of the most common in women living with HIV, with patterns of cervical cancer and HIV typifying the experience of young women in Africa who face multiple barriers to good health.

In the World Health Organization (WHO) South Africa podcast, Dr. Sithembile Nqeketo, the National Professional Officer (NPO) for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) at WHO South Africa explores the WHO's global strategy for eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem and the importance of Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action. The conversation unpacks what cervical cancer is, how it develops, and its symptoms. The conversation also delves into the primary methods of preventing cervical cancer, with a focus on vaccination, its accessibility in South Africa, and its effectiveness. Throughout the episode, our expert provides valuable insights and leaves our listeners with a compelling message about cervical cancer awareness and prevention, highlighting the importance of this global health initiative. Join us for this informative and essential discussion on cervical cancer.

This conversation was recorded on 9 November 2023.

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