Cervical cancer is preventable: Why early detection can save lives

Cervical cancer, a disease that is largely preventable and highly treatable when caught early, is the focus of heightened awareness efforts in South Africa during Women's Month. Health organizations and experts are urging women to prioritize their health and undergo regular screenings to detect the condition before it progresses. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), early detection and timely treatment of precancerous lesions are key to improving survival rates. Lorraine Govender, national manager of health programmes at Cansa, emphasized the need for increased awareness and routine screening among women. She noted that while South Africa has made strides in advancing gender equality and economic empowerment, many women still neglect their own health due to lack of time or knowledge about cancer symptoms. During Women’s Month, Cansa is focusing specifically on cervical cancer, which ranks second to breast cancer in incidence according to the 2022 South African National Cancer Registry statistics. That year saw 7,499 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed histologically, with most affected women falling between the ages of 40 and 49. Cansa’s Women’s Health awareness campaign aligns with both local and international strategies aimed at eliminating cervical cancer. The initiative seeks to educate women on recognizing the signs and symptoms of the disease, promoting early detection through regular screening, and highlighting the importance of treating precancerous conditions effectively. Roulene Bonthuys, a cervical cancer survivor and Cansa ambassador, stressed the urgency of seeking medical advice promptly rather than delaying care. “Many women are not aware of this cancer until it is too late,” she said, urging others to consult their gynaecologists and learn more about prevention methods. Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which spreads through skin-to-skin contact and can also be linked to smoking. Various strains of HPV have the potential to lead to cervical cancer or genital warts. Symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods or after menopause, heavier or longer menstrual periods, bleeding or pain during or after sexual intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge may indicate the presence of the disease. However, these symptoms often do not appear in the early stages, underscoring the necessity of regular screening for early detection and successful treatment. Dr. Tracey Adams, a senior specialist in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town and a gynaecological oncology subspecialist consultant, explained that most individuals are exposed to HPV at some point in their lives, though the body typically clears the infection naturally. Those with weakened immune systems, however, may struggle to eliminate the virus, increasing the risk of persistent infections that could lead to cellular changes and eventually cancer. People living with HIV, those with diabetes, and transplant recipients on immunosuppressive medications are particularly vulnerable to such complications. In addition to raising awareness, Cansa is working to align its efforts with the World Health Organization’s 2020 global strategy for the elimination of cervical cancer. This includes promoting vaccination against HPV, which is a primary preventive measure. The organization continues to advocate for accessible healthcare services and education programs targeting high-risk populations. As part of these efforts, Cansa has partnered with influential figures like Bonthuys to amplify its message and encourage more women to take proactive steps toward their health. Health professionals stress that regular screenings, including Pap smears and HPV tests, remain vital tools in the fight against cervical cancer. These procedures allow for the identification of precancerous changes before they progress to invasive cancer, significantly improving treatment outcomes. With continued emphasis on education, early detection, and access to care, the goal of reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality in South Africa becomes increasingly attainable.